Day 8...Off Road and 4 Wheelin'

We spent the day with our camping buddies and for today we went four wheelin' up a rocky road to an old railroad tunnel near the base of a mountain. There were two trails going off in different directions and we hiked both of them.

The first was The Native Lake Trail which was absolutely spectacular. It was an Intermediate level hike and there were spots that really had me going. Altogether we hikes 5.5 miles on this one.

We had lunch just outside the the old mine then drove up the rock road, to the Midland Railroad Grade Trail. This one is 11,500 feet and is also an intermediate trail. This one was very strenuous for the last 400 feet to the top. But as seems to be the usual case, it is well worth the effort since the views and the "finds" are very special. We hiked about 6.5 miles on this one.

Before we even got to the trails, we stopped to enjoy the vista, Len was deep in thought with his new GPS gadget.


Later we saw some more mountain streams and



...the biggest reddest mushrooms ever!

Here is Chuck, happy in his element

More terrific mountain views

All together now...It is funny how three or four trees will grow so closely together.

Another mountain stream...

Douglass City, a rip-roarin mining town that is now defunct


Here is Chuck after having taken a picture of the remains of one of the cabins of the old populated Douglass City.

Here we are almost at the top; the sign designates the Hagerman Tunnel and its current condition. They were right to tell you to stay out. Anything could fall at any time!


The Top..At Last!

The first wildlife that I have seen here in Colorado. I was expecting big horned sheep, elk, deer, bear or any other big four legged animals. But no...I find a Pika, an animal just a little larger than a chipmunk; also known as a Rock Rabbit or Hay Farmer. They are cute and very industrious. Click the picture and see him on the top of the rock.