Yesterday we decided to hike to the top of Flatiron (left) in the Beartooths. One of the advantages of this hike is that we can leave from our house without driving anywhere.
The day was mostly cloudy and cool with a few moments of sunshine.
The distance was a little over ten miles, elevation change was about 2500 feet to the summit.
Yvette and Atticus came with us. Just below the summit Atticus barked once - a rare event. Two steps later we came across fresh black bear prints in the snow.
Much of this hike is undertaken along the edge of a rock ledge that follows the contour of the backside of Flatiron.
I have decided I will start a series of photos of Heart Mountain. It has so many different looks depending on the time of year, time of day and the location of the photographer!
The view looking north on the descent.
Yvette and Atticus came with us. Just below the summit Atticus barked once - a rare event. Two steps later we came across fresh black bear prints in the snow. 
The view looking north on the descent.
The real tip off that warmer weather is on the way was the sighting of a number of Anise Swallowtails. I am always amazed at how butterflies and hummingbirds traveling through this arid environment manage to spot its scarce flora.
Eventually the eagle left, only to return later this afternoon. I was outside with the camera so started shooting directly overhead as he flew by.
It did not take long for the raven to see his adversary and come charging in to chase the much bigger bird. I took shot after shot as the raven swooped and pecked at the eagle, eventually driving him back to higher ground. 
