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!