Eighteen hikers enjoyed a lovely morning and early afternoon on Monday. Wayne had us circle Big Meadows reservoir and took two spurs. One was along the South Fork of the Rio Grande (our own in South Fork) into the edge of the wilderness. The other was a short trip up Spruce Creek to Cascade Falls, near the rehabilitated campground.
Despite the campground losing many of its beetle-killed big trees, it looks inviting and has a lot of shrubs beginning to fill in open spaces between the campsites.
Tomorrow--Tuesday: We decided to make our "tough Tuesday trek" into a drive 'n stroll. Bring your camera--the colors are beginning to show that autumn is near. We'll test the food at Skyline Lodge in Platoro. You may want to carry water and a snack,especially if you're allergic to special hamburgers and cobbler with ice cream. Even if it rains, you're in for a visual treat on this remote high-country drive. We've arranged for a 6-8 passenger truck and hope that a couple of you will drive, as well. I think there will be at least two fishing poles along for either lake or stream casting practice (briefly). --Doug Knudson Questions? 873-5239
View From Big Meadows to the Continental Divide
Dendroctonus engelmannii has had its days in the forest--nature's way of clear-cutting-- the Forest Service approach is more gentle and kind.
South Fork of the Rio Grande above the reservoir
up the Archuleta Trail
Fireweed gone to seed--ready to inhabit bare spots.
Rose hips (fruit full of Vitamin C)
Sign in the Campground
Cascade Falls--really about twice this many cascades.
Cascade Falls had many photographers today.
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