Gemstones

High above Gem Lake are the amazing Gemstones. Nice, sticky granite that you can scramble around on and feel like you are a kid. Tom, Linda, Pete and I circled the lake and enjoyed the views of the high mountains in every direction. Unfortunately, we also had a great view of the plume of smoke coming from the Fern Lake Fire which started yesterday.

It's October so the weather couldn't really make up its mind. 27 when I woke up, 50 an hour later in Allenspark, 37 at the trailhead, 70 by lunch time, and so beautiful that we headed for our second destination of the day.

I'll never turn down a chance to try a little rock climbing, so off to an area near Lily Mountain we went. Fun on the rocks all day long. My fingers are sore and not from typing on a computer for a change.

 

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Ouzel Falls

The last hike of the summer season. The snow shoes might be coming out sooner than expected. The cold front blew in yesterday afternoon resulting in a few inches of snow on the ground and some chilly temps. The low water, snow covered boulders, and fall colors in the bushes and trees made for some incredible scenes.

The water is still cascading out of Ouzel Falls, but in a very subdued manner. You can view the falls without getting soaked. In summer it is a welcome relief. Today, we were happy to stay dry as the fog covered us soon enough and the dampness started to work through our bones.


Enjoying the last hike of the season at the YMCA of the Rockies - Jim, Jane, Brenda (and Muneca), Jeff, Marise and Maggie