It Is Time...

It's been over two weeks now, and all the drinking cups in the house have been used and are stowed neatly in the dishwasher.  The kids have been good at rationing water from their day pack bladders.  They may have a days' worth of water left.  Your wifes' personal pink LNT nalgene bottle is totally empty.  She is complaining that she needs a refill, now!  This morning I noticed there is a red light on the Brita filter on the kitchen faucet.  What should we do?  It's time to go hiking.  

CO. Trail at Kenosha Pass

Beautiful landscape, idyllic, quintessential, awesome, near perfect, and heavenly, are some of the terms used today by people trying their best to describe Aspen at their shimmering transformation to golden yellow.  After a number of weeks of heart thumping climbs and high altitude beauty, we were due an easy day hike.

Aspen, draped in their finest gold, line our path.

Only 2.6 miles South of the Kenosha Pass Campground parking lot, we found a spot to not only have lunch but one to convene with nature and all it’s natural beauty. 

The Spot!

 Hike leader, Ed, suggested each find a spot they like and enjoy it.  From what the author saw, everyone took his suggestion to heart.  The usual clusters of two and three people chatting over lunch, was replaced with most hikers finding that “Spot” where they could: Scan the never ending horizon, watch a crow or hawk gliding overhead, marvel at the magnificent contrast of Aspen gold against the various tints of green pine and spruce, or just rest ones head on their pack, pull the hat down over the face, and listen to “The Sounds of Silence.”

A lazy day in the sun.

 Normally, I reserve time at the end of the day for a J.E.  Today, was different.  While my stove was making hot water for lunch, my pen wrote:  When asked, “Why do you hike?” the man answered, (gesturing with one hand extended to the horizon in the distance) “I will allow nature to answer for me.”  

One hiker said it this way.  "When I am able to get the feeling that I'm part of nature, instead of just passing through it, I reach an inner calm."

My remaining time at this “Spot” was spent watching shadows, created by the sun and clouds, dart across the landscape.  It was a common pastime in my youth.  The pace of our world today is faster than any former generation.  We must be reminded, “It’s all about the Journey” of life.  Take time to enjoy it.      

Aspen color reaching peak!

This is it...not many opportunities remain.  Miss it this or next weekend at the latest, and you will have missed one of the best natural displays of color around.  Call it the "Fluttering Leaf Show," it truly is one of a kind.  Hiking at Kenosha Pass tomorrow, may be the most colorful hike this year.  Call it the golden gauntlet, the tunnel of gold, or simply Nature at it's best, the Colorado Trail at Kenosha Pass is the place to be.

Members of the ACAA hiking group who have registered for the hike tomorrow will experience an inspiring display of fall color.  If you miss this scheduled hike, don't wait for the weekend, although it will be jammed with people and vehicles every day for a week or more.  Oh...take your camera!

The Ultimate Gear Store:

Need hiking gear of any kind, check out "Campmor."  If you order on line or are fortunate enough to live in the New Jersey area, you can't beat the prices...anywhere.  When I lived in PA., I made the day trip to Paramus, New Jersey, a number of times, if only to get one item.  The place was jammed packed full of inventory of anything I might need and lots of things I didn't need.

Backpacks to watches, and clothing to water bottles, you will find it at www.campmor.com  If you like actually talking to a person to get more details on the product, availability, shipping, etc., call 1-800-226-7667 Mon.-Fri. 8:00 am - 11:00 pm E. S. T. Sat. 9:00 am - 7:00 pm E. S. T. 

Exciting New Link Added Today!

I was doing a bit of surfing and found a site that sparked my interest.  "Smart Seniors" is a site written by a senior and former Health Care Manager.  Among the topics, you will find senior fitness, housing, vision, quality of life, education, and retirement. It's a good read.  If you find it interesting, there is a comment section where you can give the author feedback.  Likewise, if you find the site has helped you in some way, let us know by providing us feedback as well at our blogs comment section.  Or send your comments via email to: thecohiker2011@gmail.com   Thanks.

J. E. for Ptarmigan Trail:

The ride to Silverthorne was eventful, if you consider watching mountains go by an event.  For the author, the beauty of the Colorado Rockies is best displayed for the Westbound motorist at the Genesee exit overpass.  A unique view during the approach from the highway is framed by the bridge itself.  Look under and beyond the overpass, it's a beautiful image to be remembered.

Not to be outdone is snow-covered Torreys Peak (14,267’).  From I70, it appears wedged between Ganley Mtn. (12,902’) and Baker Mtn. (12,448’) only briefly before we enter Eisenhower Tunnel.  The last event is the long descent from Tenderfoot Mountain before entering Silverthorn.   I think of John Muir, who said, “How glorious a greeting the sun gives the mountains!”

We arrive at the TH (9,129’ elevation) about 9:30.  Eleven veteran hikers today including one newbie, named Sharon.  Within a few minutes of conversation, it was clear Sharon would be a good addition to our group.  I trust her experience will be one that will find her on many future day hikes.    

Hikers begin the day with a climb.

 On trail, it immediately takes us up a few hundred feet before leveling off.  Except for two springs that trickled across our path, there was firm footing all day.  The ups had a moderate amount of loose rock.  Soil erosion was moderate at places.  Nothing extreme.

Views of Dillon Reservoir, White River National Forest (left rear) and Ten Mile Range (all ten peaks over 12,000') on right rear, were outstanding during both the ascent and descent.

 Our destination, a lookout clearing, just off trail, at 11,119’ elevation.  We arrived there just before noon each finding a spot on a series of logs lined up like huge benches to view a concert.  Our entertainment today…the movement of traffic heading East/West on I 70 far below.  No swoosh, swoosh, of 75 mph vehicles rushing by.  Today, from our vantage point, vehicles were reduced to mini pods of people going about their day in silence.

The 270 degree + view provided everyone an opportunity to relax, decompress, and replace the daily grind with the sights, sounds, and smells of nature.

Aspen are close to shedding the Summers' coat of green.  Only hints of yellow today.  Aspen will be at their peak fall a-glow form in a week or two.

 

 

 

 

 It's all about the Journey!

Next week, Kenosha Pass.

POLES: Tip of the Week!

For those who use poles for added stability and balance, a few things to keep in mind.  When hiking on level terrain, the correct pole length is:  With hands through pole loops and fingers firmly around the hand grip, your forearms should be at 90 degrees to the upper arms. 

On Trail:  Plant poles to front and just outside stride path.  If you plant beyond that, you are likely to disturb natural growth of grasses and other plants.  Look down next time on trail.  If you see a continuous line of holes on both sides of trail outside the normal stride width, those poles were planted too wide.

When going up, shorten poles accordingly. When descending, lengthen poles.

Poles are not toys, plant them firmly as you hike.  Place much of your body weight on them when negotiating rocks, roots, or uneven terrain.  Let your poles take the impact, not your knees and ankles.

Practice hiking at a moderate pace while your poles are swinging back and forth beside your hips.  It should be a continuous fluid motion.  Even when encountering steps up or down, deep erosion, or crossing a shallow stream.

The sequence:  Plant left pole, while stepping out with left foot.  Plant right pole while stepping out with right foot.  Repeat.  Some hikers take two steps while planting poles once.  As your body moves to and beyond the planted pole, some of the impact of that step will be cushioned by that pole.

Happy Trails...It's all about the Journey! 

A Town and Country day hike: Tuesday, Sept. 20th.

ACAA hikers...Don't let the headline fool you, this will be a good workout for both trail veterans and newbies.  The TH is located on the edge of Silverthorn, at 9,250’ elevation.

The easy/moderate hike meanders through Aspen and Pine forests, while gaining 2,690’ elevation in 5.1 miles to the summit of Ptarmigan Peak.   

On the way, expect views of the Continental Divide, Tenmile and Williams Fork Range, Buffalo Peak, and Red Peak.  Ptarmigan Peak at 12,948’ is located in the heart of the 12,584 acre Ptarmigan Wilderness.   

Do Something BOLD!

Diagnosed with early PD, you find yourself wondering how long you will be able to do the things you do today.  This blog is designed to provide information, and opinions how you might answer that question.  It relates to one of the three areas this blog was designed to focus on.  “Improve Quality of Life especially those diagnosed with PD.”

I was diagnosed in October, 2004.  An active lifestyle is the primary reason I am still in the “Early” stage today.

Challenge yourself to do something bold.  Break out of the daily routine.  Do something that will give you an adrenaline rush, get your heart thumping with excitement.

My “Life List” has a dozen or more items I want to accomplish before I am unable.  Last weekend, I chose…a Zip Line  Tour.  I have read accounts of the sport.  Now it was time to do it.  Labor Day Weekend, I booked the family with Glenwood Canyon Zipline Adventures at Glenwood Canyon Resort.

The tour takes you across the Colorado River, 50’ above the water (a distance of three football fields) in one span.   

Tower on the far side of the river.

A brief jaunt to another tower and you zip back across the river a second time.  My nine-year-old Grandson loved it as much as I did.

Grandson, Dylan, on his way across the river.

What a ride.

 

 

 

GO, Man, GO!!!

 So take control of your life.  Give yourself an opportunity to enjoy something you may only do once in your life.  My guess is you will have lots of memories and no regrets.

Photos!

Remember to click once on a photo in any article in this blog.  You will be rewarded with a blowup of the image covering your entire screen.  It's the closest thing to being there. Enjoy! 

Mayflower Gulch Trail

There is change in the air if you were in Denver or in the back country today.  Eleven hikers made for a fine day of hiking up Mayflower Gulch, in White River National Forest. 

Basin of Alpine Tundra has a special beauty.

The first mile was gradual elevation gain on an old mining road.  Trail then led us into a basin lined with a series of drainage areas.  Close to the headwall, trail split then dissipated into talus and scree fields.

Maneuvering this stuff can be dangerous.

 At 11,500’, elevation one can expect any kind of weather.  Today we got a quick taste of what lies ahead.  Just a tad of snow fell as I was assembling my stove.  A few minutes later, while eating spaghetti with meat sauce, I enjoyed the surroundings and conversation with fellow-hikers.

Above all, the solitude one experiences at a spot like this is priceless.  The open basin leading to the headwall before us was an awesome sight.

Runoff from higher elevations end here at the floor of the basin.

A bit of exploring after lunch provided additional photos of the jagged horizon.  The anticipated snow fields were gone.  A forecast of incoming weather reports are sure to change that.  Today, there was minimal wind, a scant amount of sunshine, and plenty of good conversation.

Feel the tug at your imagination...be a miner for a moment.

 Old miner cabin ruins provided an opportunity for a few choice shots before leaving.

A small alpine flower garden.

  Remember, it's all about the journey!

J. E. - Delayed one hour!

Sorry for the delay...the J. E. for the hike today at Mayflower Gulch will be finished by 10 p.m. tonight.

Mayflower Gulch...not Silver Dollar Lake

Similar in many ways to the Silver Dollar Lake hike (originally planned), this OAB hike will take us 4.6 mi. RT.  On the way, expect to see old mining ruins, and terrific views of the Tenmile Range.  Considered easy/moderate, trail begins at 11,560 with minimal elevation gain.  Recommend you pack extra socks, rain gear (top and bottom), gloves, and a LS cotton top for the ride home. 

Weekly Tip...Make Quick Decisions

On trail, the hiker has no control of conditions he/she will encounter.  Consider erosion, wet, mud, steep, snow, and exposed rock, and root, as the most common conditions you may face.  Consider the following when trail is not ideal.

• Step between, not on rocks/roots
• Step beside loose rocks 
• Crossing solid rock: step on natural creases/ledges in the rock for traction; use poles for stability
• Step up: Adjust poles, plant ahead to next level, pull body to poles, continue to push body past poles, repeat: get in a rythm

Silver Dollar Lake - Tomorrow

Members of the ACAA hiking group are accustomed to seeing alpine lakes, snow fields, and above tree line landscapes.  Core members have also been exposed to unpleasant weather conditions.  We could experience all of it tomorrow.

This hike, off Guanella Pass road, will provide yet another opportunity for hikers to enjoy the high country.  Be sure to pack rain gear (top and bottom), extra socks, gloves, and cotton top (for the ride home).  Throw in a granola bar for that moment on trail when you are tired and need a quick boost and satisfy the hungries.

Rated easy/moderate, this OAB, 3 mi., RT, hike should make for a shorter day than our last outing.  TH elevation is 11,200’ with elevation gain of 1,000’.  There may be snow fields to maneuver so be prepared.  Wear boots with good tread and support.  Also be prepared for mud and steep sections, spring/runoff crossings, and nasty wind gusts.

Remember, It’s all about the Journey!

It's Time to go Hiking when...

It's the same with any sport or activity a person loves to do.  If you really enjoy something, have a passion for it, you will manipulate your work schedule, cancel an appointment, take added risks, to do what you love to do.  My hiking career has spanned a few decades.  Over the years, situations, some normal some not, have given me a reason to get outside and hike.

J.E. - McCullough Gulch Creek Trail

This one had "Challenge" written all over it.  Time and time again, the OAB trek made some of the 11 brave soles on this outing question if this was a good idea.  A mid-morning start is not good in terms of weather at higher elevation. 

The TH (11,150') is followed by a brief walk on an old mining road before actual trail begins.  We are greeted by a dense pine forest, in which many trees have been felled and cut up by volunteers to keep trail passable.  Our first sign, this will be a day to be remembered.

Welcome to McCullough Basin.  This is NOT as bad as it would get later in the day!

Trail splinters into less-traveled paths of mud, but all lead back to a lake up ahead.  Everything a trail could throw at a hiker, was realized today.  Deeply eroded soil, exposed rock/root growth, fields of talus, wet meadows lined with alpine sagebrush, willows and various succulent species. 

On trail, Dorothy is dwarfed by house-size boulders.

 Add deteriorating weather, falling temperature, and depleting energy levels we all thought we had an adequate supply of when we got off the bus.  All within a few miles from the TH.

Ingrid takes one opportunity for a high altitude photo.

We reach the first in a series of unnamed alpine lakes as the clouds overhead start to empty.  A handful elect to move up trail to other lakes.  Some decide to wait here.  "Waiting" soon changes to "lets go back," a decision that would prove to be a solid one.

For the six who took on the elements and unforgiving trail, it would be a lackluster few hours. 

First hiker to reach the top of a field of talus checks out the long basin.

The trek to the next lake, across alpine tundra did take more out of me than expected.  Make a mental check of some vitals: Leg strength, strong; stamina, solid;  feeling in hands, gone; dry socks, not; dry underwear, nope; try gripping the lever to my pack zipper, can't feel it; dry camera, yes.

Helen, an experienced hiker, maneuvers across a ledge of jagged granite. 

 It is approaching the time we established to rejoin the balance of the group either at the first lake or at the TH.  It would not happen as planned. 

Quandry Peak (14,265'), to our left is totally emirsed in thick white clouds.  Still raining? Yes.  Some elect to don rain pants for the return trek.  A 20-minute lunch break, and we are on the rebound.

Sitting at 12,555,' Judy checks her pack before cinching in for the return trek.  Quandry Peak is in the background.

Trail (over rock, root, and wet grass) has become extremely slick.  Going down is no piece of cake.  The more experienced hikers give tips and best demonstrated practices to those who have proven to be good hikers but lack the experience. 

It is well beyond the agreed meeting time, when we arrive at the bus.  There are no injuries, only deflated spirits.  Now out of the elements and sitting (albeit dripping wet) in the bus, we hope for a good choice for something hot.  A soup-n-salad bar in Breckenridge helps make some of the wet clothes seem less annoying.   



    

Milestone Hike - This Friday, Sep. 9th.

This is the final notice reminding readers of this hike.  It is the first in a series of hikes over the next 8 months designed to provide opportunities for people to "Get Outside."  Friday, the hike will begin at 9:00 a.m., at the Visitor Center in Eldorado Canyon S. P.  The hike is a 7 mi., OAB hike, with total elevation gain of about 800.'  Most of this elevation is at the beginning.

Trail is rated moderate/strenuous.  Trail provides solid footing, with some exposed root/rock.  Canopy is estimated to be under 10%.  Hikers must wear sturdy shoes/boots, wear weather appropriate clothes (rain gear), and bring lunch and adequate water for the day.

If you plan on doing this hike, please email "The Hiker" as soon as possible at www.thecohiker2011@gmail.com with the names of those in your party.  Names received and confirmed by "The Hiker" by 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 8, will be registered for this hike.

Review of McCullough Gulch Hike:

My journal entry for this hike will be posted in the morning.  Expect to have it completed by 9 a.m.

Hanging Lake...a must see!

This 2 mile RTripper is loaded with many opportunities to skin your knee, stub your toe(s), and further do damage to your body if your not careful.  Footing both on the up and down side can be on unstable ground/rock.  A major amount of exposed root growth and rock are common.

Daughter, Kim and Grandson, Connor keep their eyes focused on where every step is placed.

Areas of solid rock steps can be too high for little toddlers and inexperienced adults alike. Although there were many little tikes out there today.  As a hiker, you will be glad to see the half mile marker then the 3/4 and finally the metal hand railing on the right.  It tells hikers they are within a stones throw of a remarkable and stunning waterfalls.  Spend time walking the deck and sit on the benches surrounding the lake.

View from the deck.  Half the falls remain in the shadow from the early morning sun.

Each step across the deck may be the spot from which you will capture one of those special photos you can frame, then talk about over and over  Also follow the short rocky trail past the lake to spouting rock, shown below.  It's another gem and the source for Bridal Veil Falls which cascades into Hanging Lake.

The falls (left) above the lake and Spouting Rock (right).

 Shield cameras from the continuous mist.  My family made the trek late on Saturday to catch the afternoon shadows.  We did it again early today to get the benefit of a sunrise over this pristine alpine lake just East of Glenwood Springs.

"The Hiker" was close to the edge of the falls for this one.

  Add Glenwood Canyon and Hanging Lake to your "TO DO" list.     

A long view of the canyon on a near perfect day.

Glenwood Canyon is a rugged and scenic 12.5 mile stretch of rock chiseled out by the mighty Colorado River.  It's walls can rise 1,300 ' above the water.  It is considered one of the most scenic features in the U.S.

Tuesday, Sept. 6: McCullough Gulch Hike!

This 2.8 mi. OAB hike is rated easy/moderate.  That is if you consider elevation gain of just over 900 ft. to be moderate.  The TH of this relatively short hike is at 11,150'.  This hike will provide you both serenity and beauty while it challenges your physical abilities.  A series of alpine lakes dot the landscape in McCullough Basin.  So expect several stream crossings.  Also, be prepared for patches of snow.  Pack an extra (long sleeve) layer top with your rain gear.

Followup to tip of the week.

The August edition of Backpcker magazine featured a piece by Southwest Editor Anette McGivney, called "How to Walk."  Get your thumbs out of your shoulder straps and swing your arms, she says.  This provides a stabilizing counter balance to the leg motion.  Use trekking poles - especially on steep terrain - for extra striding power and reduced impact on knee joints.  Adjust the pole height so your forearms are parallel to the ground when you plant pole next to foot.  Ask "The Hiker" for a full copy of the McGivney article.  This is the most detailed account of how to walk on trail, I have seen.

Tip of the Week.

Using poles:  I recommend using poles for the following reasons.  Every mile one hikes puts stress on knees, and ankles.  Poles can help minimize that stress.  Keep poles in front of you on the downhill by using a plant and step sequence.  Plant your poles firmly ahead and downhill, while leaning forward step between and slightly ahead of the point of your plant, repeat.  On the uphill, shorten poles according to the slope, keeping a 90 degree angle with your forearms.  Firmly plant poles a stride ahead, and pull your body to them.  Continue pushing on your poles as you move past the plant, repeat.  While at full stride mode, on flat terrain, continue to change the length of your poles (remember the 90 degree bent forearms) as the terrain changes.  Poles can take up to 30% of the shock off your knees and ankles while hiking. That could be the difference between this being your last year on trail or the beginning of a new chapter of hiking.  Remember, it's all about the Journey.  Be a part of it!

September is...

• Healthy Aging Month:  I'm sure you have heard comments like:  The wrinkles on my face are getting worse.  My grey hair is out of control.  My joints hurt all the time.  The list goes on and on.  Those things will continue to happen.  The question is, will you enjoy life, no matter how much your body changes.  Healthy Aging involves eating healthy, maintaining a state of mental wellness, being comfortable with your financial (investment) wellness, and have a fitness routine that suits your capabilities.  Find more information at www.healthyaging.net 
• Marriage Health Month:  Marriage and PD...is a combination any married couple would choose not to be a part of.  The reality is, many marriages have failed while others have endured while living with PD.  Couples have a place to go for help.  The APDA (American Parkinson Disease Association) focuses on supporting the needs of young people with PD.  Stories you and I can relate to because my spouse has gone through it with me.  Learn more at www.youngparkinsons.org 
• Self-improvement Month:  I am overworked and underpaid; I am out of shape; My life is hectic and stressful; My job sucks; My personal life, lets just say, Ugh!;  Nobody listens to me.  Ever say one, a few, or all of these things.  Remember, nothing is absolute - stay open to change.  A site to find a bevy of support information is at www..selfgrowth.com    

     

New Month, new opportunities:

The intent of this blog is to be a source of information and to give readers the opportunity to become engaged in a forum they feel comfortable with.  New columns/topics will be designed to build on a strong foundation (Healthy Lifestyle/ Quality of Life/Raise $ for PAR) established July 18th, when this blog went on line.   

The spotlight this month will be on four new columns.

·        Hiking Quotes:  This column may have one post/day, or many depending of how readers respond.

·        Tip of the Week:  Will be generated by “The Hiker” and will be posted each Sunday.  Tips from readers may be submitted via email to www.thecohiker2011@gmail.com

·        It’s Time to go Hiking…:  Is the beginning of a common phrase to those who enjoy the sport.  It could become the most bizarre column again depending on the mindset of our readers.

·        Inspiring Profiles: A column written by “The Hiker” although readers can submit an interview.  This column is designed to introduce readers to common people who have achieved uncommon results, and in the process, inspired many.

QUOTES: Do you have a quote heard on trail, one of your own, or one you remember your Grandfather saying?  If so, post it on this blog.  Don't forget to give readers some background for the quote. 

TIPS:  Have a tip that always works for you.  It may work for our readers.  Post it here on this blog.

IT'S TIME:  Ask yourself, “When is it time to go hiking?”  Think about it, then post the text to the rest of the statement here on this blog. Always start your statement with, "It's time to go hiking when..."

PROFILE:  You know someone who you have admired.  He/she may be a fellow-hiker.  The person may be a friend, neighbor, or relative.  The fact is this person has made a difference in your life and the lives of others.  "Inspiring Profiles" is intended to introduce these exceptional individuals to our readers.  If you know a person who has a story, encourage them to tell it.  If you are not one to take pen to paper or click away at the keyboard toiling over text obtained from an interview, email "The Hiker" at www.thecohiker2011@gmail.com   

Look for these topics on "The Hiker" blog.  Plus you will be informed about upcoming hikes, special events, articles on improving your Quality of Life, how to live a more Healthy Lifestyle, and campaigns and activities designed to raise funds for PAR.

Because you know, its all about the journey.