Thanks to the generosity of the Simspon family, we have gained access to their cabin near Grand Lake for the entire summer (it was access for the whole summer, right?!). It is a gorgeous area, a beautiful cabin and we cannot even begin to express our gratitude. Paul has landed a work schedule which allows multiple 3, 4, and 5 consecutive days off throughout the next couple of months. We brought all of our hiking and backpacking gear and Paul has been feverishly studying the trail maps.
Following the wisdom and advice of Rich, we tackled our first trail in the dog friendly Indian Peaks Wilderness - Cascade Creek Trail on to Cascade Falls. It delivered as promised! The trailhead began at Monarch Lake at 8350' elevation and peaked somewhere around 9500' elevation. During our hike we spotted red fox, elk, deer, and a huge badger. The trail included the first wildflowers of the season, multiple waterfalls, cobalt blue skies, beaver dams and snow remnants. Perfect. We tackled a 9 mile round trip - not bad for a couple of 'lowlanders' who are still adjusting to the high altitude (that's our excuse and we're sticking with it!).
Lake Granby, Shadow Mountain Lake and Grand Lake are all experiencing high water levels thanks to near record snowmelt this year. Odie had his very first high altitude hiking experience - I must admit he did much better than his people! Happy Trails.
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