May 31st is our wedding anniversary and yesterday was 14 years together!! Woo-Hoo! We started our day with a great breakfast at the Big Horn Restaurant in preparation for hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). And, Dick was prepared with his bear shirt - aggressive wildlife beware!!
We have learned that hiking requires careful preparation, and the right gear. Good hiking boots, socks and poles are a must, along with plenty of water and salty snacks. We have certainly been able to feel the effects of the high elevations out here and it is surprising how much water is required to ward off dehydration and altitude sickness. So far, we are 'following the rules' and have done just fine. And, just like sailing, layering is key to 'the right clothes.' Here, Dick is packed and ready to go.
We boarded the shuttle that took us up all the way up to Bear Lake at 9,475 feet - a popular destination with multiple trail-heads for hikers. The road to Bear Lake is under major construction, so it took us almost an hour to get to the Ranger Station from our car. The rangers are super-helpful and friendly which was a real plus for us 'newbies' - helping to recommend trails that were challenging, yet realistic for us.
As you can see, Cutter is not allowed on the trails.....so, he was resting comfortably at 'home.' We decided to first go to Bear Lake and then hike to Alberta Falls. The trails are pretty well marked until you get into the upper elevations when things get pretty rocky.
So here is Bear Lake. Gorgeous, huh! It is hard to believe beautiful lakes like this exist at almost 10,000 feet. Actually, I count 12 lakes in RMNP. This one was the only was we saw up close and personal.
So, up we went.....headed for Alberta Falls. The early part of the trail was dirt and gravel with a reasonable grade. It did not take too long, however, before I had my sweatshirt and T-shirt off and was was more comfortable in a tank top with no sleeves. As we walked to higher ground, things started to shift to rockier terrain. RMNP has trees everywhere, so there was no lack of shade - which is nice when you are hiking.
Here's a little chipmunk munching on something. He was a friendly little guy and actually followed us for a short while, darting in and out of the rocks. The park has strict rules about not feeding any of the wildlife as this affects their ability to survive in the wild.
So here is Alberta Falls. It took us about an hour and a half to hike this far. We did, of course, stop off and on to take pictures. The trail is so peaceful and the smell of spruce and pine becomes intoxicating. There is a wonderful feeling connected with the sounds and smells of a tranquil nature path.....very much like sailing in 'fair winds.' I find it very grounding, reminding me I am a mere fleck in the universe.
So after Alberta Falls, we decided to trek further. With the grade now becoming more severe and rocky, I was in total focus on the terrain using my poles to the max. I think I must be grinding away whatever cartilage is left in my knee, but I am managing well. It is already on my radar to schedule another appt with my orthopedic guy when we return....I think I'm ready for those 'rooster' shots :-)
As we climb higher, we are now seeing a number of snow drifts slowly melting. Although it is much chillier, we are comfortable in our short sleeves. Where the drifts are melting, the path is almost like a small stream. Our hiking boots are waterproof, so we still have dry feet!
Looking down into the steep caverns is amazing....this shot certainly does not capture the drop. It has been interesting to see how many older folks are trekking the trails....some are easily in their 80's; perhaps more. We have met lots of nice folks on the trails and there are many hiking clubs in the area. What a nice way to connect and stay fit!!
So at the end of our day, we are back home, showered and out for our anniversary dinner. We went to a wonderful rustic mountain place for dinner called The Dunraven Inn. Awesome food, good wine and a full belly. What a way to top off a wonderful day.
Tomorrow, we will leave Estes Park and head up into Wyoming. We are not too sure where we will end up b/c we have about a week before our reservation at the Grand Tetons. I will keep you posted!
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