Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Alberta Peak Special hike

Wednesdays Special Hike at the Wolf Creek Ski Area attracted 7 hikers.  We had a scenery experience big enough for thousands of people. All 7 made it to sit on the top. (Ozzie had skied off the top the day before, after walking there from the Treasure Lift)
The goal--the top of Alberta Peak--highest point in the ski area.  The route--the Divide ski trail, which follows the Continental Divide.  Much of the time we were walking directly on the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (3,100+ miles long). 
We walked from the Ski Area Parking lot, following the edges of nicely groomed ski trails.  Many a skier looked our way as they went whizzing down the hill.
One kid on skis was excited--"Can people hike here too?"  Well, we did–hike up and back all of 5.6 miles.  As you can see, it's worth taking it slowly once in a while.  And our aerobic fitness has moved up a notch. Thanks, Wayne! --Doug Knudson--  See you Monday at 10 for a non-snow hike.
 
2013-03-27 10.20.13-1
The Goal
 
Cramp-ons, the essential tool.

 

Hikers today--Wayne and Linda, Lloyd and Barbara, Ozzie and Eve, and one more.


 



It's a trudge

 



Destination--Alberta Peak

 



At the top

 



long view of the Continental Divide

 



lonesome conquest

 





I know I'm camouflaged!  White-tailed ptarmigan Lagopus leucurus, in winter plumage.

 



 



Montezuma Peak from WCRSKI /Continental Divide
 
2013-03-27 10.46.10-2
 
Trail Boss

 

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