First an exploratory hike up to Thomas Lakes, with a look at Mount Sopris looming over:
Mountain Man John Beard:
Beautiful lakes, although guarded by aggressive mosquitoes... I couldn't get up the hill above them fast enough, and even then they stalked me until we ran down later.
A look at the rock field above the lakes:
View back toward Carbondale's valley:
And a look at Mt Sopris:
I wasn't quite ready for the loose talus today, a good reminder that it has been awhile since we have been in the mountains. It was a good workout and a good scouting mission for another day.
I can't get enough of that hat...
4th of July in Aspen! Sure do love spending this holiday in different Colorado towns.
John giving the bear a look at an article about polar bears in Minneapolis, although the bear seems more interested in the mattress special:
A centipede that swallows up little children in its path:
Lots of bikes and very enthusiastic people:
Steam-powered keyboard, I think?
Checking out the current exhibit at the museum - it's interactive, and a pretty cool experience but hard to explain:
Awesome buffalo:
Awesome bathrooms - river rock walls and solar panels doubling as skylights:
We finished our day in Aspen with a straight-up hike ascending the ski area to the top of gondola. Phew, that was a doozy!
The next day we went back so I could try again to climb Mt. Sopris. Much better state of mind, and with positive results. And more great views:
Heading across the saddle toward the last pitch:
Amazing scenery with bands of red rock:
The summit, getting closer:
This snow may not last many days longer:
A look at the "rock glacier" - apparently a glacier covered with rocks? Never seen one of those before (that we know of):
I was content with the east summit, while John was feeling peppy enough to descend to the next saddle and climb up to the west peak of Mt Sopris - nice work John!
Marmot! We also saw gray pikas but didn't get any photos of those adorable rodents.
I came prepared with bug spray this time, so I was able to pause for a photo of the pretty lakes up close:
Loving the dry summer and beautiful mornings!
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