Friday, June 29, 2012

July 3rd South Fork Parade

The Silverthread Club will be in the South Fork Parade on Tuesday, July 3rd. You can bicycle, walk,  ride an ATV or what ever is your pleasure. We have permission to unload at the Church of Christ parking lot. I have attached a map of the route and where we start. No longer than the route is maybe we can get some hikers involved. Hope to see you there.

George Powell, president

Silverthreaders Club

Silverthread Outdoor Recreation Club

Email ghp0181@gmail.com

 

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Del Norte Peal hike

We went to the top of Del Norte peak, using the E/SE approach and came almost straight down the E side. We waited out the weather, only about a half hour, and ended up on top with a sunny sky.
The round trip was about 4 miles, I didn't measure the elevation change but it was considerable, or at least my legs thought it was............
The field of columbine was amazing; sure don't know how they survive and thrive in that environment. The "water holes" in the large rocks were all dried up; but we did get some rain on our way back to the truck.
We will hike again next Thursday, may have a "different" kind of hike for us to enjoy. Meet at the VCPL with a lunch, water, raingear and a friend.........
Dennis

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Trek to Del Norte Peak

Bob's pictures
 
T'was a mite windy on top and near the top, but a great day nonetheless.  It is always great to summit and look down in all directions.
We need rain, badly, but without lightning.
Bob.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Friday (6/29) Ride

   Attention !!!!!!!!!!

It has been decided to have another ride on Friday, because we will be in the parade next Tuesday. We plan to ride to the top of Bristol Head Mountain. Meet at the visitor center at 9 AM on Friday. Parade information will come later.

George Powell, president

Email: president@silverthreaders.org

 

Elwood Pass/Silver Falls ATV Ride

It was a nice warm day for a ride, but the clouds were really appreciated. I think there was about 16 machines on the ride to Elwood Pass and Silver Falls. Thanks to all that made the trip.

 

 

Yes there was some water.

 

 

Lunch Break

 

 

Falls on Elwood Creek

 

George Powell, president

Email president@silverthreaders.org

 

Del Norte Peak Hike Photos

Tuesday, June 26
Nine intrepid folks hurried to the top of Del Norte Peak (only 12,400') for the flower show and the expansive views. A few found lower elevations adequate for their needs, and we congratulate them for their efforts and wisdom. We welcome Carolyn Strickland, who joined us and proved to be a smart hiker just in from Dallas.
Despite drought and persistent breezes, the alpine grasses and flowers are showing off.  Thousands of hardy columbines, alpine sunflowers, penstemons, and their friends brush your boots as you ascend.
 
On Thursday, Dennis will lead a hike, probably up the same peak from a different approach.  It is worth the dramatic vistas.
 
Next Tuesday, I hope to enjoy your company as we go up up Bennett Peak--only 6 miles round trip. Join us at 8:50 a.m. at the South Fork Visitor Center. Boots, jacket (believe it or not), snack or lunch, water, and a positive attitude will all reward you. You'll probably get plenty of sunshine and big refreshing air.
 
--Doug Knudson
 
Looks gentle enough


Del Norte hikers--3 of 9


One-sided spruce (Persistent wind from the SW) and a little snow facing NE

 



Whipple Penstemon--"above timberline" doesn't mean "lifeless."

 



Rio Grande National Forest from the top

 



Alpine columbines

Del Norte Pk columbines use rock shelters


Timberline cone (Engelmann spruce)

 

Monday, June 25, 2012

Shallow Creek Hike Photos

A dry, hot day on Shallow Creek, near Creede, gave 17 people enough exercise to fulfill their differing needs.  Flowers are showing off a great variety.  A 13-year-old found no problem in walking and running along the trail and exploring various short side-trip attractions.  He also showed mature good sense in analyzing and checking on the route with the rest of the group.
  It was fun having several newcomers with us.  We hope to see you again.
 
Tomorrow (Tuesday at 9 a.m.), we'll depart for a peak climb near South Fork.  This will give the vigorous group some alpine breathing opportunities. We'll choose at the visitor center between Bennett Peak (<13,300' and 3 miles) or Del Norte Peak (12,400' and 3 miles plus some additional high walking).  (Weather may require an alteration.) We hope this will be safely strenuous, to move us toward well-conditioned alpine hiking.  Please wear sturdy, supportive boots, bring a couple of bottles of water, and some mountain-top food. Add sunscreen and sunglasses and a light jacket--the sun is brighter up there but the temperature may be 10-15 degrees lower.
 
On Thursday, I think Dennis will lead another hike of intermediate nature.  Same hour/same place.
Dennis may have some other pictures of this hike coming your way.
 
--Doug Knudson   (get healthy; avoid unnecessary health care costs.)
 
 
16 of 17 on the 25th of June Shallow Cr.

 



Shallow Creek

 



Stemless evening primrose

 



Lava flow on slopes of Shallow Creek valley

 



Beaver pond on Shallow Creek

 



Wayne and Connie arrive

 



Made it!

 

Shallow Creek hike

Wayne led us up to the yert on the Shallow Cr. trail, about 2.5 miles up the hill, where we ate our lunch. It was a hot day, but everybody made it back to the vehicles.
Next Mondays hike will be up the Hope Cr. trail, it is a lot shadier and pleasant hiking along the creek.........
Meet at the VCPL at 9AM, bring your lunch, lots of water and a friend.
Dennis