On Thursday, four of us had two short, pleasant walks before 11 a.m. We saw the National Forest's largest tree, lots of fresh flowers, and Million pond.
On Tuesday, I hope to lead a simple ascent of Del Norte Peak. We should encounter a lush display of alpine flowers among the last traces of melting snow. Bring sunscreen, windbreaker, maybe gloves, and surely a hat plus boots. We will be at 12,400 feet, where the cosmic rays can turn you red rather quickly. (I really don't know what cosmic rays are, but I've heard the term for years.) Bring your best camera (close-ups and telephoto shots abound). This is a hike, not a rock-climbing event. Most anyone with well-conditioned breathing can make the top. The trip is about 3 miles from a parking place, one-way. Only about 1 mile is steep up-hill, but it is above timberline. Patience and stopping to puff now and then, plus persistence will produce some of our most beautiful close-up and 360ยบ distant views. A few of our experienced hikers may probably be persuaded to absorb the alpine views from the lower-elevation saddle, if you want to shorten the trip.
If the weather remains murky or threatens thunderstorms, we will retreat or make a safer walkabout. We expect a few people from Pagosa Springs--good hikers and adventurous skiers.
Please meet at Rickel Park in South Fork, just off of US 160, SW of the Burger Shack and the Library. We will leave there at 8 a.m. on Tuesday morning. This should allow easier parking and prevent reorganization of the ATV riders. at the Interpretive Center. No pets, please.
Questions? Call 873-5239. --Doug Knudson
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