The high altitude topography of the backcountry is prone to sudden thunderstorms, especially in July and August. If a lightning storm catches you, take special precautions.
Lightning can travel far ahead of the storm, so be sure to take cover before the storm hits.
It is not worth the risk. Instead, seek shelter even if it is only a short way back to the trailhead. Lightning storms usually don't last long, and from a safe vantage point, you might enjoy the sights and sounds. Seek shelter in a low-lying area, ideally in a dense stand of small, uniformly sized trees. Stay away from anything that might attract lightning, such as metal tent poles, graphite fishing rods, or pack frames.