Monday, December 16, 2013

A sunny trip to Big Meadows, on big feet

An even dozen took advantage of a cool but sunny Monday for several hours of easy snow-shoeing.  Two neophyte snowshoers (Barbara and Deb) adapted quickly and energetically.  The 3.5-mile hike with a nice stop for lunch under a couple of trees had several people adjusting their wardrobes as they walked from the long shadows of the road along the South Fork of the Rio Grande and then into the sun as we neared the Big Meadows reservoir.
 
Next Monday, we'll probably have some Christmas-time visitors.  We have several shorter alternatives in mind to accommodate their low-land breathing apparati.  Meet on Monday before 10 a.m. at the South Fork Visitor Center. 
 
Questions:  873-5239   Doug Knudson
 
 
The start!

 



Cliffs below the reservoir

 



The South Fork of the Rio Grande, some flowing at 9,500' after many days and nights of freezing temperatures

 



Continental Divide on top of these hills

 



Bridge over the South Fork as it leaves the Big Meadows Reservoir

 



Foot traffic only

 



The South Fork--rocks, water, ice, and snow


Seating in sun or shade, mostly on the snow

 



End of our trail; beginning of another creature's.

 

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