On this windy day (30 to 40 mph)in Sept. 2004 we came across these marmots on our way to Skyscraper Mt. They were seeking shelter on the leeward side of the rocks. This time of year their coats are thick and they will be going into hybernation soon. It was snowing heavily on our way back to the parking lot...it was a great day and we seemed to be the only ones enjoying it. (Can't understand why others don't like hiking in blizzard type of weather.) This area is closed from October to June or July, depending on the snow pack.