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.