Next Hike for 'High Country Hiker' Group

Approaching four weeks into the new hiking season and only one hike completed to date.  Not an exciting start.  For those reading this from outside Colorado, allow me to explain.

Mother Nature has had a lock on her ability to push a winter snow storm out of the Rockies and onto the front range and the Denver metropolitan area, two weeks in a row.  Major storms on two consecutive weeks, have killed chances for members of this dedicated group to get outside.

Ruins of the Walker Mansion atop Mt. Falcon.

Certainly, I am not the only one having a bout of cabin fever.  I've heard from the hike leader, who is equally annoyed with the fact that back to back hikes had to be cancelled.  He and I have been out show shoeing a number of times this winter to take the edge off that fever.  But for those who are passionate about being in the back country, it doesn't take long to find yourself in the early stages of hiker withdrawal.

For me, there are just so many hiking blogs I can read, or gear sites to check out the latest, lightest, and lowest cost item on the market.  I need to know that I will be getting outdoors, and soon, or I may have a hiking fantasy that is so real, I'll never come back.

If you are a member of the High Country Hiker (HCH) group and you have been following this blog from time to time, you have read about a new feature this year.  In addition to the regular posting - journal entry - explaining the current hike, there will be a brief description of the upcoming hike as well.

One of a number of views from the ridge line.

Designed for new and less experienced hikers, we hope to inform those registered for the next hike about what they can expect.  Things like:

• Trailhead (TH) location, and elevation.
• Restroom facilities available (or not)
• Trail bed materials and conditions
• Expected features, i.e. rock formation, old ruins, overlooks
• Potential wildlife sightings
• If trail is open to hikers, bikers, and equestrians
• Reminders what to pack

If weather conditions improve, we will hike at Mount Falcon Park, outside the town of Morrison.

Tuesday, April 23rd.

Beginning at the east parking lot, this hike in terms of difficulty is rated 'Easy.'  The day will begin on the 'Hiker Only' Turkey Trot trail.  Trail bed will be a combination of cinder, gravel, and dirt.  Trails in the park are well worn.  Be prepared for lingering snow, ice, slush, and that good old stuff you loved to jump in as a kid...MUD!!!  For that reason, it is suggested you have mid-length or high waterproof boots.  If not, be prepared to walk on the edges of trail throughout the day.

Don't be surprised if we encounter snow, ice, and mud.

Beyond the Turkey Trot, trail the balance of the day will be multi-use.  That means we are likely to encounter bikers, other hikers, runners, dog walkers, or equestrians.  Trail width in the park varies from a single lane jeep type road to a traditional single file path.  There are a few moderately steep ups, nothing to blow you away.  When on top of ridges, views of the city are good if we have a clear day.  We will visit the ruins of John Walker's dream house, and the site where Walker planned a presidential retreat for heads of state.

This is the same place students from the 2013 'Hiking, the Basics' class took their graduation hike.  Pit toilets are located a short distance from the TH.  Don't expect to see much wildlife this early in the season.  Rabbits, chipmunks and numerous species of birds, are the only likely sightings.
 
Dress warm...wicking layer, insulation layer, and weather protection layer.  Wear a cap and gloves.

See you on trail.