The Colorado Trail: Day One in Colorado

Our first real mountain view!

     When our family travels, we try to maximize time and efficiently get to where we're going.  I was really grateful for that this past vacation as well.  Even with a three hour flight and the time it takes to get in and out of airports, we were free to explore around noon.  The plan was to drive to Salida for the night-- to break up our drive to Silverton-- and look for a shorter hike to do on our drive there.  It worked out perfectly because the Colorado altitude is a bit of a shock for the lungs.  A day to get adjusted is always a good idea.  After a couple of hours on the road, we found a turnoff for a part of the Colorado trail near Kenosha Pass.

Another gorgeous view

     Although we were itching to get moving and hiking, we stopped and talked to a couple of buddies who were hiking the entire trail.  I couldn't help but think of my adventuring older brother who went out and did a great portion of the Appalachian Trail last summer and is now in Massachusetts for another summer of adventure.  They had the same relaxed friendliness and seemed to be having a great adventure so far.  We wished them well, joking that we might meet up in Durango, which was where they would eventually end their hike.

Some rain clouds
(Thankfully, that was the only
rain we saw the whole trip.)

     Getting out on the trail for the first time was a blast.  I loved seeing the little lean-tos and campfire remnants lining the path.  The aspens were shimmering in the light breeze and I found it hard to keep my eyes on the ground and not at the amazing blue sky.  See, where I live, its a rare day when you see the sun through the masses of clouds.  In Colorado, it was a rare occasion to see any clouds.  Why can't everywhere be like that!?
     We hiked up at an easy incline before turning around at about an hour, which we'd decided would leave enough time for us to drive to Salida in time for my run.  It was a gorgeous first hike and gave me a     taste for what was to come!

A beautiful view before our hike back to the car

Shot of the Aspen trees