Penitente and Witches Canyons

Barry Nelson led us through many ups and downs in Penitente and Witches Canyons as we heard the gabble of hundreds of sand-hill cranes circling to find a wind that would carry them northward to their breeding grounds.
We were honored and inspired by a special hiker. Spec./almost-Sgt.
Marcia Smartt is home on 18 day R&R from Iraq. Her lithe ease on the rocks had some "more experienced" hikers talking about fitness. Many of us had prayed for her survival on Kit Carson Peak (visible from our trail), some 3-4 years ago.
Next week, we'll leave the SF Community Center at 9 a.m., meeting "valley people" at the drive in theater area W of Monte Vista shortly after 9:30 a.m. Bring a trail lunch and be ready for flexible weather. --Doug Knudson

Marcia/Nina Smartt on the edge

Descent of the Penitent

Slippery wedge

Up a rocky trail-Penit