While visiting Allison's longtime friend, Jeannine, who lives in Ridgway, we decided a hike to a Colorado alpine lake would be in order. The only question was would it be Columbine Lake or Blue Lake - ultimately Blue Lake won out. (Don’t
worry Columbine – we’re coming back for you!)
We knew this was a popular trail, but were a little surprised at the number of people we encountered - thankfully everyone was spread out (no Covid pun intended!) and it didn’t deter
from the beauty/serenity of this very enjoyable hike.
You’ve got to love Colorado with all it’s majestic mountains and
pristine lakes and this hike was no exception!
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We spotted these deer on our way to the Trailhead
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It was a beautiful cold Fall morning!
(22° at the very shady trailhead) |
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We are hiking up to Lower Blue Lake . . . starting elevation was 9,350 . . .
Round-trip was close to seven miles with 1,600 ft of elevation gain |
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There was a well maintained trail that had several switchbacks . . .
These helped us quickly gain the elevation
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At 10,940 ft Lower Blue Lake is nestled in this beautiful glacial cirque
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Another high mountain lake for us!
The Upper Blue Lakes are located between the ridge and the mountain behind us.
We were tempted to go for them, but mileage wise was getting close to Kent's knee limit |
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Here's a panoramic view
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The stream flowing from the Upper Blue Lakes had icicles!
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The trail was heavily forested, but opened up for a nice view of the mountains . . .
Lower Blue Lake was located in the bowl on the right hand side of this picture |
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Mount Sneffels rises 14,158 ft off to our east . . .
It is one of the 58 fourteeners (14ers) the state has to offer |
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Sneffels Range are part of the San Juan Mountains
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On our way back to Ridgway in the late afternoon
There's something special about the Fall season . . . it begs us to get outside
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One last look at where we have just come from . . .
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A sign for the times . . .
We actually did come across hikers wearing masks!
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