Sentinel Mountain has lots of trails made by deer and elk. Humans have made several attempts. The only way is always up. Fortunately, three fine ladies and 5 members of the opposite gender made it through the two upward miles and back down for some coffee and tea and watermelon. Congratulations to them. All know the way--and the way not--to go and how to make two miles last most of the morning.
On one of the warmest days of this spring, the summit breezes cooled us lusciously, loosening our climbing muscles. Thanks to Judy for refreshments at home at the end of the hike.
This is our home-town peak, with fine views, many species of trees and lower vegetation. It is worth walking there frequently, even if just at the lower levels.
Next Tuesday 9 a.m.:
We will have another lovely hike somewhat longer and less steep, but challenging your lungs--to get them ready for high altitudes (still snowbound). Bring your boots, long pants (we brush past brush, sit on logs, and occasionally kneel on rocks). Bring along a sturdy friendHowever, we do not push you beyond your ability at this stage. We're hoping to help you get your wind and endurance to grow gradually.
Despite imaginative statements of a few folks who have seldom hiked with us, we aren't there to punish you or to prove how fast we can walk. We're doing this to guide you in a healthy exercise and to allow you to see some of the most beautiful places in our National Forest and BLM lands. We also hope to stimulate your self-confidence and give you opportunities to increase your knowledge of the complex, spectacular Creation around us.
This Thursday 9 a.m.:
Dennis has planned an up and down/up and down intermediate hike north-east of South Fork. This will allow you some beautiful views that you may not have seen before.
Next Monday 9 a.m.:
The Moulds will have another relatively easy hike in a colorful part of this great valley.
All hikes start at the South Fork Visitor Center (at the intersection of US 160 and CO 149).
Short term visitors are welcome to participate. There is no charge but each participant is responsible for his/her own safety and should be in vigorous health. We ask that pets be left at home. Bring a lunch and water, as well as weather protection and boots.
For newcomers, here in the best of the Rocky Mountains, we walk on trails (where available) that contain firm and loose rocks (Rocky) and that go up and down big hills (Mountains), along streams, and through vegetation. We hike at elevations from 7,700' to 14,000' (never all in one hike). That means you'll have more fun if you have acclimated with vigorous, heavy breathing exercise for several days or weeks ahead of hiking. (Bluster isn't enough.)
Again, on June 2,
Bob Seago (who hikes with us in the spring and summer) invites you to see his photographs displayed on the second floor of the Creede Repertory Theatre. The exhibit is free, opening at 5:30-7 p.m. If you wish to also take in the first play of the season (7:30), make a reservation through the CRT Ticket Office. Bob specializes in local landscapes--some of them as you've never seen them before. He has also traveled throughout much of the world and has a large collection of prints for sale.
Bob the engineer now resides west of Creede with his talented and community-oriented wife, Sharon.
--Doug Knudson 873-5239
BobX2,Wayne,Marilyn,LindaX2,George, with the goal behind them
Ball Cactus, Sentinel Mtn--the biggest we've seen, in flower.
Getting there--moving up in the world.
SW view from the Sentinel Mtn summit 10,171 feet
Arriving is satisfaction
Oregon-grape or Mahonia
Rio Grande, Chapel of the S. Fork
Coming down is rocky fun
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