Crystal Creek Trail and They Made It

 

On Wednesday Jim, Debbie and I took another drive along scenic Hwy 92, which runs along the north rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Debbie bought new hiking boots and wanted to try them out, so we found a 5 mile round trip trail that didn’t sound too bad. It turned out to be one of the nicest trails we’ve done here, following a ridge to several overlooks of the canyon. There were lots of ups and downs, starting in desert-like areas and then passing through an oak, aspen and pine forest. The trail ended 1800’ above the Crystal Reservoir in the Black Canyon. And we had the trail to ourselves the entire time.

 

  

Jim nearly caused me to have a heart attack by taking pictures on the wrong side of the fence.

When we were in Ouray, Mark and Bobbie told us about a card you can buy from Colorado Search and Rescue, so the other day we finally purchased one for $3 each. For one year it insures that SAR will attempt to find and rescue you from the back country if necessary. Of course, that’s only if you can get a cell signal to call for help, but we figured with all the hiking we’re doing in some pretty rough places, it would be something worth having. I’m happy to report we haven’t needed to make use of it so far.

About 4 that afternoon, our Lazy Daze friends made it to Steven’s Creek. We hadn’t seen Chuck and Carla for about a year and a half, and we had a fun evening catching up.

Yesterday we all went on an easy 3.5 mile hike at Hartman Rocks, since they are still trying to adjust to the altitude having come from Iowa. From left, Jim, me, Debbie, Carla and Chuck. Quite a motley crew.

We capped off the day with dinner at the Gunnison Brewery. (Be sure to try their Sticky Fries!)

Besides all the interesting places we’ve visited, one of the best aspects of full-timing has been meeting and reuniting with friends along the way. It’s a good life.