Three truckloads of people drove to Bishop's Rock, on newly protected BLM land (Southwest of Monte Vista; about 5 miles North into the Rio Grande County Line). The gentle but somewhat jumbled rock complex gave us a winding trail to the top. We followed new bike trails along the top of the rocks, enjoying grassy places for camping or picnicking. Then we took the down escalator toward the north and went past the Bishop and said our farewells.
Some day, you may pass by the bishop and continue on the county road, where you can find two Forest Service campgrounds (summer and fall). A county park (XC skiing and picnicking and hiking) is just a few miles up the road, in the trees.
(Some summer day, I hope to take the 6-9 mile (one way) hike on Greenie Mountain, just to the South of our destination today. That's a near-trot most of the way, to get back in time.)
Next Monday we'll watch the weather and select another of the pleasant destinations in our county.
10 a.m. at Visitor Center.
The Bishop in stone.
A bit of the big rock
The hikers on top
Zack expresses readiness
Down the north (gentler) side.
The neighboring rock (one of three)
Some trees seem miraculous
The Bishop from the North side
Ladies in front of the stone wall called Bishop's Rock
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