In search of a physical challenge and to escape some of the record high temperatures in the Denver area, last weekend I set off for an early morning hike in the James Peak Wilderness. The mountain air was a cool and crisp 40 degrees when I arrived at the trailhead at 6 a.m. and a welcome relief from the typical summer heat. Planning to explore the Crater Lakes, I set off along the South Boulder Creek trail which meandered through dense forests and alongside a bubbling creek. The early morning light filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the path and creating a serene atmosphere that was surprising devoid of other hikers.
As I ascended, the trail gradually became steeper and more rugged and the temperatures warmed to a comfortable 70 degrees. Opening into a high-alpine basin, the trail led first to the two lower Crater Lakes whose pristine alpine waters mirrored the vibrant colors of the bright blue sky and surrounding rugged peaks. Feeling adventurous, I decided to push on to Upper Crater Lake.
The trail followed alongside a cascading waterfall and became more challenging, requiring some scrambling over rocky terrain – but the effort was well worth it. Sitting just below the Continental Divide at tree line, Upper Crater Lake was a hidden gem. The surrounding peaks, with a few spots of snow remaining, were a perfect dramatic backdrop for the clear, cold waters of this beautiful lake. After enjoying the solitude of this beautiful landscape and photographing the lakes from various angles, I somewhat reluctantly, began my descent back to the trailhead before the sun climbed too high in the sky.
Below are a few new works that I was able to create on this trip
