Hike to Finch Lake (RMNP)

The bus ride from Aurora to the Allenspark TH (8,950'), included a quick pit stop at Lyons Community Park.  Once at the TH, the group of 12 High Country Hikers were on trail in minutes.

The Allenspark Trail climbs steadily through the Ponderosa and Lodgepole pine forest for .8 miles to a junction with a spur trail leading to Bluebird Lake Trail.

We continue another .9 miles, to a second junction with the same Bluebird Lake Trail.  A few wet spots dot trail in the area.  Not enough to cause concern.  The exposed and loose rock hikers must negotiate are more of a challenge.

Nancy and Judy climb a section of trail loaded with exposed roots and rocks.

A few steep sections of trail present hikers with a series of log and stone steps to climb.  A number of stone steps are uncomfortably high, causing some to take more rest or water breaks than normal.

We play leap frog on trail with a group of girl scouts, and later a group of boy scouts out for a day of fun...possibly a requirement for a merit badge.

Golden Banner provides color to the area devastated by the Ouzel fire.

Although most of this trail offers hikers a full canopy, there are sections where we are exposed to direct sun.

Trail comes to a clearing of sorts at 9,750' el.  Here, hikers get a front row view of Longs Peak (14,259').  Trail here is lined on both sides with the bright blossums of Golden Banner.

As we scan the horizion to the west, Pagoda Mountain (13,497'), Chief's Head Peak (13,579'), and Mt. Alice (13,110') are in full view.

Finch Lake.

Trail continues crossing two streams in the next mile before it begins it's descent to the lake.  The area surrounding the lake is densely populated with pine.  Although trail continues by the lake where it becomes Pear Lake Trail leading to Pear Reservoir (10,582').

We leave trail as everyone begins scouting for a spot to have lunch.  Lakeside is a bit marshy making it difficult to find a dry spot.  Ed decides on a spot, but soon finds himself among a deposit of Elk skat.  He was overheard saying, This should be called Poop Lake.

There was time to capture images of the  lake before cinching into our day packs for the return.  Soonafter we departed the lake, the girl scouts approached from the rear.  One was overheard saying,  "The thighs are burning, feel the burn," as they maneuvered the steep up without hesitation.  AAAHHHH, the energy and stamina of youth.

Total Miles = 7.7

Total elevation gain = 1,386'