The trail head had no facilities, forcing hikers to decide if and when they would call for separation from the group. Trail began with a number of turns through spruce and pine forest before it makes a steady climb along the south side of a narrow valley. The thick forest soon thins as we cross a small creek and gain altitude.
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| After leaving the TH, everybody feels strong |
Stands of alpine willow line both sides of trail. Exposed legs take a beating from their branches. Talk about rocks...even the nimble footed among us are slowed by jagged, then smooth, then loose rock, both on the ascent and again when we return.
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| Hikers are challenged by thick willow, rock steps, and runoff. |
Soon, the first of three lakes appears. The privately owned Naylor Lake, from a distance, seems to be a secluded paradise. One small fishing boat can be seen gliding across the mirrow-still lake without making a wave. As great as it must be to live or be a guest there, one question comes to mind. Is the place worth the effort needed to bring everything required to sustain it.
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| Lake Naylor is inviting. |
Trail soon reaches timberline as it continues along Square Top Mountain (13,794'), to our left. We make steady progress and as we approach Silver Dollar Lake (11,950'), the massive landscape gives one the feeling of being in a special place.
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| Silver Dollar Lake is over the ridge. |
But wait, trail continues, and it continues to go UP. Could there be another lake to explore?
Without question, the climb of 280' more, is well worth the effort. We are treated to the scenic Murray Lake (12,228') and a landscape not often seen in Colorado. From any spot on the ridge, one can see three alpine lakes, in a row.
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| Sharon pauses to catch her breath, followed by Ed and Gary1. |
Above tree line, there is not much cover from the sun, or steady wind. Hikers are forced to pick a rock, a clump of alpine grass, or log to sit on for lunch. A fleece or wind shell helps retain body heat for some. A few lucky souls sequester themselves by small rock outcroppings for protection.
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| Judy (L) and Ed (Center), have lunch. |
The eye can't miss Argentine Peak (13,738') from most any spot around the lake. Not far to the North, the Continental Divide Trail hugs the ridge line.
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| Masha enjoys the view. |
Across the tundra to our right is the imposing Mount Wilcox (13,408'). Although these mountains are treeless, they somehow provide a sense of beauty and stability. Without question, this hiker stopped on trail numerous times today to simply "Enjoy the Journey."
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| Mountain Gentian dot the landscape. |
Wildflowers normally capture hikers attention on this trek. This late in the summer, we only found a few pockets of Mountain Gentian. Bright yellow Snow Buttercups and red Indian Paint Brush captured the attention of the camera.
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| Snow Buttercup has corrugated petals and grows in a bog |
While going across a boulder field, the high pitched squeek of a Pika was heard. Seconds later it scampered among the massive rocks, stopping long enough to be captured by the lens.
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| Pika poses if for only a second. |
Total Miles: 4.5 RT
Total Elevation Gain: 1,000'
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| High Country Hikers (Standing L - R) Sharon, Dorothy, Marsha, Judy, and Jonelle. (Seated L - R) Penny, Ed, and Johanna |
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