June 19, 2026

The high heat continues. But we still had to make a P77 run. It was doubtful we’d see much with the heat. We only saw a few deer and elk. But it was about 20 degrees cooler than in town so it was well worth the escape. It was very very dusty up there and on the highway drive the windshield was nearly covered with bugs. As I’m frequently saying now…one day closer to fall. We still contend though that we are very blessed to live close to such mountain scenery. Nikon Z50 II

Top Of The World in the shadows up high.  Great views from up there.

Sheep Mountain - flat one in the background.  Great views up there too.

 June 16, 2026

The relentless heat goes on.  I was going to hike up in the Cimarron country today, but didn't sleep worth a hoot with this heat last night, so decided on something closer.  I started out on the Payne Mesa Road and tried to hike on an old logging road down in there.  After only 1/4 mile it was impossible with overgrowth and blowdown.  So I headed over to Moore Mesa and hiked an old road over there I've hiked before.  It was only around 3.5 miles of which about half was bushwhacking.  I was surprised to find two different springs still running.  One was just bubbling up out of the flat ground.  There were shooting stars blooming by the other one.  It always amazes me the beauty the Lord tucks away even in remote spots where it's very unlikely anyone will ever see them.  The columbines are blooming early.  It's always good to see them again.  It was 62 degrees up there when I started and 70 when I ended.  The last part of the hike was up the Moore Mesa Road, which was completely in the sun.  It was way too hot for really pleasant hiking - but I think that's the way this summer may go - just like the last two scorching summers.  We are praying for cooler weather and rain as fires are popping up all over the west.  Iphone 15 Pro

The bushwhacking part was quite a workout going over a lot of dead fall.  Sad to say, but the Uncompahgre Plateau really needs some fire in many places.

My favorite wildflower and Colorado's state flower.  I always take too many photos of them.

 June 11, 2026

Aspen Trail Hike

It's been too long since I last hiked.  So today was the day to get out.  It's still hot and dry, but I couldn't wait anymore.  I do this hike at least once a year.  It's around 6 miles - easy miles.  It's also a motorcycle trail, which is good and bad.  They've really stirred up the rocks, so it is easy to twist your ankle.  But, they get the deadfall taken care of on a regular basis.  I rarely run into anyone on this trail.  Today was different.  I first was passed by 7 motorcycles.  I heard them coming and moved of the side of the trail.  They flew by so fast they didn't even know I was there.  Later I was passed by 8 motorcycles.  They were going slower.  I'm not positive, but I think it was two separate groups.  I also never see wildlife on this trail - for obvious reasons.  I didn't today either, but I did spook an elk.  I only heard it crash through the brush so couldn't tell if it was a bull or cow.  It was a bluebird day and when I wasn't in the trees it was quite warm - mid 60's.  I only saw one mosquito which is also unusual.  I did see lots of flies, but they weren't biting yet.  So it was a very blessed day.  This evening Joann and I did a couple mile walk.  So I got in around 8 miles today.  Thanks Lord for another day of walking in the woods fellowshipping with you!  Nikon P950

You shouldn't eat that! (coyote scat)

One of the motorcyclists

New pine growth

Some ole' hiker dude.

Nature's alarm system.

Bunches of arrowleaf balsamroot

Not sure what happened to this tree to cause a hunk to pop off like that.  There was another spot like this higher up.  It wasn't lightning as nothing blackened????

Lots of larkspur

My lunch spot on that rock.