It took us 3 1/2 hours to make the 70 mile drive from Cedaredge to Ouray on Friday, with stops for propane, gas, and groceries in Montrose and getting delayed by construction north of Ridgway. And another hour using every block we own to get level on our site in the Uncompahgre National Forest, all worth it for this view.
We just happened to find Debbie and Suzanne a quarter mile down the road, our Lazy Daze friend Chris also joined us yesterday. And it looks like Kim is on her way.
We’ve walked a pleasant loop on the roads around our site, hiked the Perimeter Trail around Ouray, part of the Cutler Creek trail, and the challenging Oak Creek trail. We’ve had happy hour at our site catching up with Debbie and Suzanne, lunch at the Ouray Brewery with Mark and Bobbie, and a very nice get together at their house last night. The gathering included John Q and Joalenn, and Chris and Mindy, couples we have met previously through socialites Mark and Bobbie. The photos I took weren’t too good, so check out Box Canyon Blog for Mark’s take on the day.
Our new neighborhood.
The Perimeter Trail around Ouray starts climbing immediately from the trail head across from the visitor center.
We spotted Mark and Bobbie’s lovely house. It’s the one in middle.
Then we spotted Mark and Bobbie.
Lower Cascade Falls.
Suzanne taking our picture as we stood on the bridge.
More photos from the Perimeter trail, where we got caught in a thunderstorm at the point of no return.
The Cutler Creek trail, where we were deep in the aspen forest and mud.
Oak Creek trail, a tough climb of 2,400’ in a little over three miles. We didn’t make it all the way due to tired legs and impending thunderstorms. But the trail has waterfalls, canyons, meadows, creek crossings and views.
We’ve been dodging thunderstorms since we arrived, but with the forecast looking much better, tomorrow we take our first trek above tree line. I’ve got some extra oxygen in my pack just in case…
Oxygen and sugar… that's all you need.
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Great shots of the hikes and the 'hood!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos.
ReplyDeleteLovely camping site, with great views. Fun seeing you guys again. Rest up for Ice Lake tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteAwesome trail and lovely vistas. Boy your friends have a really lovely house and fabulous view.
ReplyDeleteI wish we would have stopped at Ouray a few years back. Pam and John loved that area.
What great pictures! What great fun!! What great friends! Yup I'm eating my heart out. Love your views and your neighborhood. Glad to see Suzanne back out on the trail. She definitely deserves some fun and you all sure had it. What fantastic water. I'll hike anywhere to get to falls or creeks or cool mountain rivers. Simply fabulous trails. Yup, I'm eating my heart out.
ReplyDeleteWe haven't been to Ouray in many years. Your photos and description of the hikes makes me want to head there. Beautiful views! So glad to see Suzanne back out on the road. Must be wonderful to be back in the company of your friends.
ReplyDeletePerfection all around. Great views and stellar company. Love that Suzanne has joined too. Can't wait to read about all those crazy hikes I know that Bobby and Mark have planned for you.
ReplyDeleteNina
Beautiful area, beautiful photos. Love the rushing creek and pretty houses. How fun to have the band back together for more fun and adventure!!
ReplyDeleteHow terrific that most of the Red Rock Gang is back together:) Sounds like some great hiking coming up...pack that oxygen for sure! I was so glad that Suzanne is back on the road and enjoying your company. Thanks for all the terrific mountain photo. They are helping ease my need to hike:)
ReplyDeleteLove seeing the group together and out in all kinds of weather. Sure is gorgeous country Mark and Bobbie live/summer in. Maybe I should be carrying O2 in my pack for visitors.
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