Devil's Backbone OS

This the final day hike of a phenomenal hiking season, comes amid a week of seasonal change, and neighborhood kids dressed in costume.  In that context, I can't think of a better place to hike this week than Devil's Backbone Open Space (DBOS).  The name projects an image of being a long, rugged, and challenging day ahead.  As you will see,  within the shear natural beauty of this slice of landscape, there is a certain ruggedness not easily explained.  It must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

Kruger Rock

It's mid-October.  One more scheduled hike will end another fantastic hiking season.  Then November 15th. is the annual 'Gathering' for members of the High Country Hikers group and a guest.  Time really does go by fast when you are enjoying life.

Ed leads the group from the TH to Kruger Rock. 

Lost Lake - IPW

The atmosphere on the bus was much like a 50th high school reunion.  People were catching up with a fellow group member since their last hike together.  Although there were only 11 people on board, it sounded like a much larger group.  There was much to talk about as Ed guided the bus out of the ACAA parking lot.  It was as if someone had brought a bunch of debate team members on board, each one trying to out talk the other.  It sounded like a group of buzz-saws on auto-pilot...a sign of a tightly-knit group. 

Colorado Trail at Kenosha Pass

Based on the weather forecast, my pack included a few items for the first time this hiking season.  A skull cap, knit cap, and glove liners will protect vital parts of my body if the weather turns ugly.  If the temperature remains as forecast, my upper body will be able to shield off the elements with a Capilene layer, then a LS-cotton tee, and a light fleece.


John stops for a trail map as members of the group make their way through stands of Aspen.