It was a bit of a drive to get to the trailhead, 12 miles of the trip on good dirt roads south of Pagosa Springs, but the trail to Opal Lake was definitely worth it. Dense stands of aspens provided shade between the occasional meadows full of wildflowers along the mile and a half gradual uphill hike to the lake.
We soon saw why it was called Opal Lake, due to the milky hue of the water. I read it is normally more of a turquoise color but with the drought there is more algae growing so it is a little greener.
The stream that flows into the lake is also milky, apparently due to the mineral content. It was the first running water we’ve seen around here that wasn’t crystal clear.
The trail doesn’t go completely around the lake, but from the other side the reflections in the water were picture perfect.
We also had a deer run in front of us on the road to the trailhead, saw another one bounding off into the woods just as we began the hike, and had an elk, a deer and 2 fawns in the meadow behind our sites that same day. And we found some bear scat on the trail. Just another day in Colorado…
You are slowly falling in love with Colorado... at least in the summertime. Pick your climate and temperature by picking your elevation (The Boonie Principle). Don't leave before fall... it's quite a show.
ReplyDeleteBox Canyon Mark
What a beautiful part of the country.
ReplyDeleteThose aspens are so straight and tall. I didn't know they were so big. Enjoy your weekend.
Judging from your gorgeous pictures, this was a beautiful hike. What a fabulous setting. How do you find all these great hikes? It's not like they are in your " campground".
ReplyDeleteWent on the same hike, and now I'll have an identical blog post. Hope you don't mind...
ReplyDelete