Be sure to click on these thumbnail photos for larger versions.
1. The hike begins with the trail winding through a stand of aspen. |
2. Sego Lily |
3. Much of the ground is shaded by the aspens but some patches of sunlight break through. |
4. The trail enters the Indian Peaks Wilderness. |
5. The trail. |
6. A small stream. |
7. Paintbrush. |
8. The trail. |
10. More bighorn sheep |
11. More bighorn sheep |
12. The view opens up and I wonder if that might be St Vrain Mountain peeking out over the trees. |
13. I think this white flower is called Pearly Everlasting. |
14. Lots of wildflowers on the hillside. |
15. Is this an Aster or a Daisy? |
16. Blue Columbine. |
17. Chiming Bells. |
18. This grouse was kind enough to pose for me. |
19. Another of the grouse. |
20. Another of the grouse. |
21. Another of the grouse. |
22. A grouse chick. |
23. This is the trail, not too far from the saddle between Meadow Mountain and St Vrain Mountain. |
24. Paintbrush along the trail. |
25. Getting real close to the saddle now. That is St Vrain Mountain. |
26. When you reach the saddle, the peaks of Wild Basin suddenly and dramatically come into view. This is also the boundary of Rocky Mountain National Park. |
27. The panoramic view here is incredible. Super Size It! (274kB). |
28. After spending some time in the saddle enjoying the view and taking a short break, I begin to climb Meadow Mountain. This view is toward St Vrain Mountain and the trail leading in that direction. |
29. I think this is Shrubby Cinquefoil, also known as Potentilla. |
30. Another shot of the trail passing through the saddle. |
31. I continue the climb toward the summit of Meadow Mountain. |
32. I've reached the summit, and look at the view! These are the St Vrain Glaciers. |
33. More St Vrain Glaciers. |
34. Ogalalla Peak. |
35. Mount Alice. |
36. Pagoda Mountain. |
37. Longs Peak. |
38. Twin Sisters |
39. Here is a panoramic view from the summit. Super Size It! (561kB). Photo only. Super Size It! (600kB) With peak identification. |
40. I just need to kick back and enjoy the view for a while. |