Ah, the start of autumn. Somehow our last backpacking trip of the summer turned into a fantastic showcase of the best of the fall colors and our discovery of a fantastic area of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Awesome cloud inversion |
Before I delve into details of the backpacking trip itself, I must describe for you the beauty we passed while driving to the park. Rocky Mountain National Park has two main entrances. The east side of the park, at Estes Park, is the area we had frequented most. It is rather easily accessible from the front range, and I would guess, is the area most visited by tourists. The west side, near Grand Lake, requires about one hour more drive time. That drive took us right into the mountains, dark lush green, with golden aspens intermingled. As we were ascending, we were blessed with a great view of a cloud inversion... a perfect prelude to a colorful Colorado autumn! We crossed up over Berthoud Pass, then eventually down into Grand Lake where we found our trailhead.
The East Inlet Trailhead is a great spot for both hikers and backpackers. Not far into the hike is Adams Falls. It is an impressive waterfall, that is easily seen from the adjacent overlook. It was a perfect energizer for our hike ahead.
A game of Uno for evening entertainment |
Yum! |
Hot cocoa! |
One of three... |
After setting up camp (also a beautiful spot, next to a less serene but still gorgeous river), we started on a day hike to Lone Pine Lake. Now for some reason, Matt and I thought we could get there in time for lunch. We thought it would be an easy hike. Well, it turned out to be three miles one way, with 1200 feet of elevation gain. We were tired but in good spirits when we reached the lake, The hike back was a bit easier since it was downhill. And a plethora of wild raspberries boosted our spirits. And Jack? Well, he was born to hike. He probably could have gone a few more miles. He wanted to run (for the fun of it) all the way back to camp.
A dinner of chili followed by chocolate oreo pudding readied us for a good night's sleep. The temperature was cool but not cold like the night before. We woke well-rested. The hike out was lovely, and left us looking forward to our next adventure.
We will see you on the trail! Also, be sure to watch our YouTube video: Backpacking with Kids East Inlet RMNP
Mama Bear
Beautiful East Meadow |
Great post and awesome pics!! Really enjoying your blog!
ReplyDeleteMargaret, glad you are enjoying it!
DeleteWhat a great adventure! So glad you are enjoying new surroundings! The kids loved seeing pictures of the boys. They are so big already!
ReplyDeleteCassie, we are loving it out here. The boys have taken to the mountains really well! Hi to you and the kids!
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