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hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:10:05 MDT

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hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:10:02 MDT

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hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:10:00 MDT

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hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:59 MDT

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hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:57 MDT

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A few hours earlier, Hikemaster Scott climbed Twin Sisters (backdrop) with his parents. Now, he stands atop Lily Mountain and captures a photo of the "twins" to the southeast. It was an incredible summer day in RMNP!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:55 MDT

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A few hours earlier, Hikemaster Scott climbed Twin Sisters (backdrop) with his parents. Now, he stands atop Lily Mountain and captures a photo of the "twins" to the southeast. It was an incredible summer day in RMNP! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain059.jpg

Hikemaster Scott enjoys a photo towards the Estes Park valley to the northeast.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:54 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott enjoys a photo towards the Estes Park valley to the northeast. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain060.jpg

Oops! Is Hikemaster Scott going to fall off the western edge of the summit of Lily Mountain. It's a vertical drop-off high enough to scare most, but apparently not him :-) Longs Peak and Estes Cone are visible in the backdrop to the south.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:52 MDT

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Oops! Is Hikemaster Scott going to fall off the western edge of the summit of Lily Mountain. It's a vertical drop-off high enough to scare most, but apparently not him :-) Longs Peak and Estes Cone are visible in the backdrop to the south. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain061.jpg

YMCA hiker Glenn called his cabin at the YMCA and asked his wife to look upon the Lily summit for our hiking group. Apparently, she saw us waving from the summit...how cool is that!!!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:50 MDT

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YMCA hiker Glenn called his cabin at the YMCA and asked his wife to look upon the Lily summit for our hiking group. Apparently, she saw us waving from the summit...how cool is that!!! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain064.jpg

What a great moment to be alive and take in the view. Longs Peak (14,259 ft) is RMNP's highest peak, visible in the back, with Estes Cone (11,000 ft) directly in front of it.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:48 MDT

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What a great moment to be alive and take in the view. Longs Peak (14,259 ft) is RMNP's highest peak, visible in the back, with Estes Cone (11,000 ft) directly in front of it. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain065.jpg

To the west of Lily Mountain, the high peaks of RMNP undulate in pockets of light and dark, creating gorgeous silouettes, one upon another, into the distance.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:46 MDT

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To the west of Lily Mountain, the high peaks of RMNP undulate in pockets of light and dark, creating gorgeous silouettes, one upon another, into the distance. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain070.jpg

YMCA hikers enjoy a little dinner and nourishment atop Lily Mountain (9237 ft). The 4-mile roundtrip hike is worthy of taking in a little sustinence!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:45 MDT

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YMCA hikers enjoy a little dinner and nourishment atop Lily Mountain (9237 ft). The 4-mile roundtrip hike is worthy of taking in a little sustinence! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain071.jpg

Various shades of white and gray color the sky above Twin Sisters as the sun sets behind the mountains to the west.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:42 MDT

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Various shades of white and gray color the sky above Twin Sisters as the sun sets behind the mountains to the west. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain079.jpg

Incredible sky! Wow was it perfect up here. Great night to see the sun set, and a great group of hikers to do it with!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:40 MDT

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Incredible sky! Wow was it perfect up here. Great night to see the sun set, and a great group of hikers to do it with! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain083.jpg

Right after the sun set, Hikemaster Scott called for the hikers to start back down the 2-mile return trip, so as not to get caught in too much darkness. Here, the YMCA group scampers down the boulders near the top of Lily Mountain.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:38 MDT

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Right after the sun set, Hikemaster Scott called for the hikers to start back down the 2-mile return trip, so as not to get caught in too much darkness. Here, the YMCA group scampers down the boulders near the top of Lily Mountain. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain087.jpg

It was hard to stay focused on our steps on the trail, because the eyes tended to wander to the sky! It was so pretty, so perfect on this mid-July evening in RMNP.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:36 MDT

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It was hard to stay focused on our steps on the trail, because the eyes tended to wander to the sky! It was so pretty, so perfect on this mid-July evening in RMNP. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain090.jpg

Near the summit of Lily Mountain, the great view of Twin Sisters to the southeast opens up. It is after sunset now, and the clouds in the sky are filled with pretty colors.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:09:34 MDT

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Near the summit of Lily Mountain, the great view of Twin Sisters to the southeast opens up. It is after sunset now, and the clouds in the sky are filled with pretty colors. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain093.jpg

Twin Sisters provides one of the best views of the east (Diamond) face of Longs Peak, RMNP's highest summit (14,259 ft). This cloudless morning, the sharp detail and sky contrast are especially noteworthy.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:47 MDT

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Twin Sisters provides one of the best views of the east (Diamond) face of Longs Peak, RMNP's highest summit (14,259 ft). This cloudless morning, the sharp detail and sky contrast are especially noteworthy. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain001.jpg

Gorgeous morning to hike to Twin Sisters. Starting at 9000 ft, the "twins" are at nearly 11,500 ft, making this a pretty serious climb. All the nicer to do it in the cool morning shadows, right Juli and Art?

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:45 MDT

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Gorgeous morning to hike to Twin Sisters. Starting at 9000 ft, the "twins" are at nearly 11,500 ft, making this a pretty serious climb. All the nicer to do it in the cool morning shadows, right Juli and Art? - TwinSistersandLilyMountain002.jpg

Hikemaster Scott's folks, Juli and Art, pose from the side of Twin Sisters for this northward view across to the Mummy Range. Distant peaks are easy to spot and identify from the strategic Twin Sisters summit.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:44 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott's folks, Juli and Art, pose from the side of Twin Sisters for this northward view across to the Mummy Range. Distant peaks are easy to spot and identify from the strategic Twin Sisters summit. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain005.jpg

About 80% of the way uptrail, trees give way to rock. This finally reveals the two "twins" (see photo), a welcome sight for the weary hiker. Hikemaster Scott's mom, Juli, poses for a photo with the Twin summits in the backdrop.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:42 MDT

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About 80% of the way uptrail, trees give way to rock. This finally reveals the two "twins" (see photo), a welcome sight for the weary hiker. Hikemaster Scott's mom, Juli, poses for a photo with the Twin summits in the backdrop. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain007.jpg

Juli and Art press on towards the summit of Twin Sisters in a rocky world below the summits. The wind was howling, but that didn't stop anybody. It was Juli's first trip to Twin Sisters, and only Art's second.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:40 MDT

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Juli and Art press on towards the summit of Twin Sisters in a rocky world below the summits. The wind was howling, but that didn't stop anybody. It was Juli's first trip to Twin Sisters, and only Art's second. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain008.jpg

The final leg of the Twin Sisters hike takes Juli and Art up from the windy saddle below with the radio tower to the magnificent summit towards which they're approaching. The other "twin" is in the back right.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:39 MDT

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The final leg of the Twin Sisters hike takes Juli and Art up from the windy saddle below with the radio tower to the magnificent summit towards which they're approaching. The other "twin" is in the back right. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain011.jpg

Juli summits Twin Sisters! Congratulations! She celebrates with a photo to the west towards the biggest peak in RMNP: Longs Peak! Magnificent day at 11,500 ft on Twin Sisters.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:37 MDT

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Juli summits Twin Sisters! Congratulations! She celebrates with a photo to the west towards the biggest peak in RMNP: Longs Peak! Magnificent day at 11,500 ft on Twin Sisters. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain013.jpg

Hikemaster Scott's parents, Art and Juli, enjoy perfect sunshine and warmth high atop one of RMNP's best-known summits, Twin Sisters! It was Juli's first trip here, and Art's second.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:35 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott's parents, Art and Juli, enjoy perfect sunshine and warmth high atop one of RMNP's best-known summits, Twin Sisters! It was Juli's first trip here, and Art's second. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain016.jpg

Another photo of Art and Juli atop Twin Sisters, with a southwest view towards Wild Basin and Indian Peaks Wilderness. The vantage point here is spectacular!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:33 MDT

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Another photo of Art and Juli atop Twin Sisters, with a southwest view towards Wild Basin and Indian Peaks Wilderness. The vantage point here is spectacular! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain017.jpg

Oh, why not! Let's take a nap on the summit of Twin Sisters. After all, the weather just doesn't get any better than this. The Mummy Range rises far to the north, as Juli basks in full sun here.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:32 MDT

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Oh, why not! Let's take a nap on the summit of Twin Sisters. After all, the weather just doesn't get any better than this. The Mummy Range rises far to the north, as Juli basks in full sun here. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain020.jpg

Art relaxes a while atop Twin Sisters. He found a nice lunch spot that turned out to be relatively wind-free. He, Juli, and Hikemaster Scott enjoyed a very comfortable stay atop a peak known for its hostile environment.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:30 MDT

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Art relaxes a while atop Twin Sisters. He found a nice lunch spot that turned out to be relatively wind-free. He, Juli, and Hikemaster Scott enjoyed a very comfortable stay atop a peak known for its hostile environment. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain022.jpg

Juli enjoys lunch on the rocky outcrop that is Twin Sisters western peak.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:28 MDT

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Juli enjoys lunch on the rocky outcrop that is Twin Sisters western peak. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain024.jpg

It's hard to believe that Longs Peak (seen here) is nearly 3,000 feet higher than the point from which this photo is taken, Twin Sisters summit (11,500 ft).

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:26 MDT

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It's hard to believe that Longs Peak (seen here) is nearly 3,000 feet higher than the point from which this photo is taken, Twin Sisters summit (11,500 ft). - TwinSistersandLilyMountain025.jpg

People aren't the only ones taking in the view and soaking up the sun on Twin Sisters. This marmot has the perfect perch from which to absorb heat and gaze at the high peaks. Life is good, even for the furry ones, on this day!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:24 MDT

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People aren't the only ones taking in the view and soaking up the sun on Twin Sisters. This marmot has the perfect perch from which to absorb heat and gaze at the high peaks. Life is good, even for the furry ones, on this day! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain026.jpg

Hikemaster Scott poses atop Twin Sisters, with Longs Pk in the back. It's his 4th visit here. Last time, he inadvertantly lost his camera somewhere on the trail and had to do the hike twice (in 1 day) to retrieve it! No such drama this time!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:22 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott poses atop Twin Sisters, with Longs Pk in the back. It's his 4th visit here. Last time, he inadvertantly lost his camera somewhere on the trail and had to do the hike twice (in 1 day) to retrieve it! No such drama this time! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain028.jpg

Group shot atop Twin Sisters. Hikemaster Scott (right) joins parents Art and Juli for a memory-making-moment atop Twin Sisters. This was quite an accomplishment, and glad we all made it up!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:21 MDT

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Group shot atop Twin Sisters. Hikemaster Scott (right) joins parents Art and Juli for a memory-making-moment atop Twin Sisters. This was quite an accomplishment, and glad we all made it up! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain031.jpg

After nearly 1 hour atop Twin Sisters, it was time to head down. The cold breezes got Juli and Art decked out in their identical fleeces! How cute :-) Twin Sisters eastern "twin" appears in the backdrop beyond the saddle.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:19 MDT

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After nearly 1 hour atop Twin Sisters, it was time to head down. The cold breezes got Juli and Art decked out in their identical fleeces! How cute :-) Twin Sisters eastern "twin" appears in the backdrop beyond the saddle. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain032.jpg

Art and Juli hike down towards treeline, but not before this shot with a great view of the Estes Park valley was taken. Gorgeous day high in RMNP!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:16 MDT

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Art and Juli hike down towards treeline, but not before this shot with a great view of the Estes Park valley was taken. Gorgeous day high in RMNP! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain035.jpg

Hikemaster Scott's folks, Juli and Art, pose in this northward view to the Mummies. They are joining Scott for a 3-day backpacking trip to the Mummies starting the next day, so the photo is rather timely!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:14 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott's folks, Juli and Art, pose in this northward view to the Mummies. They are joining Scott for a 3-day backpacking trip to the Mummies starting the next day, so the photo is rather timely! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain037.jpg

As the trail re-enters the trees, Hikemaster Scott catches one last photo up to the rocky summits of Twin Sisters above. What a great hike it was!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:13 MDT

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As the trail re-enters the trees, Hikemaster Scott catches one last photo up to the rocky summits of Twin Sisters above. What a great hike it was! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain038.jpg

Back into the trees, Art and Juli hike down the 37-switchbacks comprising the 3.7 mile one-way hike to Twin Sisters. They can be rather tedious, especially in hot sun on the way down...still, the hike was very much well worth it!

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:11 MDT

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Back into the trees, Art and Juli hike down the 37-switchbacks comprising the 3.7 mile one-way hike to Twin Sisters. They can be rather tedious, especially in hot sun on the way down...still, the hike was very much well worth it! - TwinSistersandLilyMountain043.jpg

Final steps out from the Twin Sisters hike. With the car nearly in sight, it was time for this last shot of Art and Juli on the Twin Sisters hike, with Estes Cone in the backdrop.

hikemaster — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 22:42:08 MDT

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Final steps out from the Twin Sisters hike. With the car nearly in sight, it was time for this last shot of Art and Juli on the Twin Sisters hike, with Estes Cone in the backdrop. - TwinSistersandLilyMountain046.jpg

It's rare to make it 3 miles in to Fern Falls so early in the morning (about 7:30 AM). This gave the YMCA Loomis Lake hikers the chance to enjoy some solitude here, and early sun lighting the waters of this impressive falls.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:32 MDT

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It's rare to make it 3 miles in to Fern Falls so early in the morning (about 7:30 AM). This gave the YMCA Loomis Lake hikers the chance to enjoy some solitude here, and early sun lighting the waters of this impressive falls. - LoomisLake007.jpg

YMCA hikers at Fern Falls. Left to right: Richard, Jamie, and Glenn. Hikemaster Scott has hiked previously with each of them, including some pretty big ones (Glenn: Pagoda Mtn, Jamie: S. Arapahoe Pk)

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:30 MDT

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YMCA hikers at Fern Falls. Left to right: Richard, Jamie, and Glenn. Hikemaster Scott has hiked previously with each of them, including some pretty big ones (Glenn: Pagoda Mtn, Jamie: S. Arapahoe Pk) - LoomisLake009.jpg

Hikemaster Scott at Fern Falls (again!). He's been here several times already this summer, but how can you tire of this spot. The cool spray was awesome! Next stop: Spruce Lake.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:28 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott at Fern Falls (again!). He's been here several times already this summer, but how can you tire of this spot. The cool spray was awesome! Next stop: Spruce Lake. - LoomisLake010.jpg

Spruce Lake is about 4.5 miles from the Fern Lake trailhead. Here, Richard (left), Glenn (center), and Jamie (right) enjoy the scene. Gabletop Mountain rises above the lake. Loomis sits at the base of Gabletop above the trees to the right.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:26 MDT

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Spruce Lake is about 4.5 miles from the Fern Lake trailhead. Here, Richard (left), Glenn (center), and Jamie (right) enjoy the scene. Gabletop Mountain rises above the lake. Loomis sits at the base of Gabletop above the trees to the right. - LoomisLake011.jpg

The view at Spruce Lake is impressive. Gabletop Mountain (left) and Castle Rock (right) form the backdrop. Hikemaster Scott climbed Castle Rock in 2008. Today, he's taking his group straight to the base of Gabletop to visit Loomis.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:24 MDT

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The view at Spruce Lake is impressive. Gabletop Mountain (left) and Castle Rock (right) form the backdrop. Hikemaster Scott climbed Castle Rock in 2008. Today, he's taking his group straight to the base of Gabletop to visit Loomis. - LoomisLake013.jpg

Spruce Lake is one of the most popular lakes for fishing. No fishermen were spotted here early on during the trip up, but later in the day on the return, several were out in the waters fishing.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:22 MDT

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Spruce Lake is one of the most popular lakes for fishing. No fishermen were spotted here early on during the trip up, but later in the day on the return, several were out in the waters fishing. - LoomisLake014.jpg

Hikemaster Scott's 3rd trip to Spruce Lake. It's a pretty one!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:20 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott's 3rd trip to Spruce Lake. It's a pretty one! - LoomisLake015.jpg

YMCA hikers enjoy Spruce Lake with not a cloud in the sky---hard to believe they'd endure a hail and lightning storm before the hike is over! That's Colorado weather for you. Jamie and Glenn enjoyed the hike a lot.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:19 MDT

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YMCA hikers enjoy Spruce Lake with not a cloud in the sky---hard to believe they'd endure a hail and lightning storm before the hike is over! That's Colorado weather for you. Jamie and Glenn enjoyed the hike a lot. - LoomisLake016.jpg

Castle Rock from Spruce Lake. It's hard to imagine you can climb that thing while you're standing here at the lake. Definitely not for the "heights-challenged"!!!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:16 MDT

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Castle Rock from Spruce Lake. It's hard to imagine you can climb that thing while you're standing here at the lake. Definitely not for the "heights-challenged"!!! - LoomisLake018.jpg

Beyond Spruce Lake, the way becomes more difficult. It's much steeper and the trail (if you can call it that) is extremely rough. Here, Richard (right) and Glenn (left) progress slowly through the trees on their way to Loomis Lake.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:15 MDT

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Beyond Spruce Lake, the way becomes more difficult. It's much steeper and the trail (if you can call it that) is extremely rough. Here, Richard (right) and Glenn (left) progress slowly through the trees on their way to Loomis Lake. - LoomisLake020.jpg

A pretty un-named falls greets Loomis Lake hikers a short distance up from Spruce Lake. The photo opportunity is a good chance to take a rest from the steep climb!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:13 MDT

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A pretty un-named falls greets Loomis Lake hikers a short distance up from Spruce Lake. The photo opportunity is a good chance to take a rest from the steep climb! - LoomisLake021.jpg

Don't be fooled! That's not Loomis Lake yet. Loomis is all the way at the base of Gabletop Mountain (backdrop). This is a small un-named pond halfway from Spruce to Loomis. Beautiful, though!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:11 MDT

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Don't be fooled! That's not Loomis Lake yet. Loomis is all the way at the base of Gabletop Mountain (backdrop). This is a small un-named pond halfway from Spruce to Loomis. Beautiful, though! - LoomisLake022.jpg

Looking back towards Castle Rock....still doesn't look summitt-able!!!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:09 MDT

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Looking back towards Castle Rock....still doesn't look summitt-able!!! - LoomisLake025.jpg

There it is: Loomis Lake! Gorgeous morning in RMNP. With strong hikers, Loomis was reached before 11 AM. Guess it was to be an early lunch this day. Plenty of rock surrounds Loomis, including the sheer wall of Gabletop Mtn.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:07 MDT

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There it is: Loomis Lake! Gorgeous morning in RMNP. With strong hikers, Loomis was reached before 11 AM. Guess it was to be an early lunch this day. Plenty of rock surrounds Loomis, including the sheer wall of Gabletop Mtn. - LoomisLake027.jpg

Loomis Lake is rather large, as you can see here. There is some greenery holding on, but it is quickly obvious once you're here that this is a harsh environment for life to thrive.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:05 MDT

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Loomis Lake is rather large, as you can see here. There is some greenery holding on, but it is quickly obvious once you're here that this is a harsh environment for life to thrive. - LoomisLake029.jpg

Snow clinging to the sheer wall of Gabletop Mountain reflects in beautiful Loomis Lake. Loomis has a deep green appearance, as do many of the lakes in RMNP.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:03 MDT

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Snow clinging to the sheer wall of Gabletop Mountain reflects in beautiful Loomis Lake. Loomis has a deep green appearance, as do many of the lakes in RMNP. - LoomisLake033.jpg

YMCA hikers enjoy lunch at Loomis Lake. Glenn, Jamie, and Richard were wonderful hikers, never complaining about anything, and seemed to love the trip here. First visit to Loomis for all these folks!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:19:01 MDT

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YMCA hikers enjoy lunch at Loomis Lake. Glenn, Jamie, and Richard were wonderful hikers, never complaining about anything, and seemed to love the trip here. First visit to Loomis for all these folks! - LoomisLake034.jpg

Hikemaster Scott basks in the warm sunshine at Loomis Lake (10,220 ft). It's a rocky scene here, despite the elevation being below treeline.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:59 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott basks in the warm sunshine at Loomis Lake (10,220 ft). It's a rocky scene here, despite the elevation being below treeline. - LoomisLake036.jpg

Hikemaster Scott enjoys a photograph alongside Loomis Lake. The weather here was gorgeous, although later in the day his group would be caught in a hail and lightning storm (see later)--hard to believe, eh?!!!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:57 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott enjoys a photograph alongside Loomis Lake. The weather here was gorgeous, although later in the day his group would be caught in a hail and lightning storm (see later)--hard to believe, eh?!!! - LoomisLake037.jpg

The main backdrop at Loomis Lake is Gabletop Mountain. It was hard to capture both the mountain and the lake in one image, since the lake is directly below the sheer wall of Gabletop.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:55 MDT

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The main backdrop at Loomis Lake is Gabletop Mountain. It was hard to capture both the mountain and the lake in one image, since the lake is directly below the sheer wall of Gabletop. - LoomisLake040.jpg

Hikemaster Scott loved Loomis Lake. He had visited here briefly once before (June 15, 2008) on a Castle Rock scouting expedition. But this was his first chance to spend any real time here at Loomis. It was time well spent!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:53 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott loved Loomis Lake. He had visited here briefly once before (June 15, 2008) on a Castle Rock scouting expedition. But this was his first chance to spend any real time here at Loomis. It was time well spent! - LoomisLake042.jpg

YMCA Loomis Lake hiking group. Left to right: Jamie, Glenn, Richard, and Hikemaster Scott. A great time was had by all, and these folks know how to hike. Got back to the YMCA an hour early, despite hiking in a rain/hail storm later on.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:51 MDT

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YMCA Loomis Lake hiking group. Left to right: Jamie, Glenn, Richard, and Hikemaster Scott. A great time was had by all, and these folks know how to hike. Got back to the YMCA an hour early, despite hiking in a rain/hail storm later on. - LoomisLake043.jpg

Lone limber pine tree grows on the eastern shore of Loomis Lake. Loomis is mainly surrounded by rocky terrain, although some krummholz and the occasional tree are growing here along the shore as well.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:49 MDT

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Lone limber pine tree grows on the eastern shore of Loomis Lake. Loomis is mainly surrounded by rocky terrain, although some krummholz and the occasional tree are growing here along the shore as well. - LoomisLake044.jpg

YMCA hiker Richard is ready with his camera! He captured digital photos of many greenback cutthroat trout swimming in this lake, Loomis, as well as Spruce, further below. The fish were large, plentiful, and colorful!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:47 MDT

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YMCA hiker Richard is ready with his camera! He captured digital photos of many greenback cutthroat trout swimming in this lake, Loomis, as well as Spruce, further below. The fish were large, plentiful, and colorful! - LoomisLake048.jpg

A sole limber pine tree holds on along the outlet shore of Loomis Lake (east edge). Many of the trees surrounding Loomis are limbers, suggesting the harsh environment normally encountered here.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:45 MDT

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A sole limber pine tree holds on along the outlet shore of Loomis Lake (east edge). Many of the trees surrounding Loomis are limbers, suggesting the harsh environment normally encountered here. - LoomisLake049.jpg

The water flowing out of Loomis Lake falls almost immediately into the cascade seen here, only a few feet below the edge of Loomis. Gabletop Mountain, northernmost of the "tops" on the Continental Divide, looms large over Loomis here!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:43 MDT

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The water flowing out of Loomis Lake falls almost immediately into the cascade seen here, only a few feet below the edge of Loomis. Gabletop Mountain, northernmost of the "tops" on the Continental Divide, looms large over Loomis here! - LoomisLake050.jpg

YMCA hikers traverse a boulderfield below Gabletop Mountain. Left to right: Jamie, Richard, Glenn. The boulders were a welcome relief from the dense forest and brush!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:41 MDT

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YMCA hikers traverse a boulderfield below Gabletop Mountain. Left to right: Jamie, Richard, Glenn. The boulders were a welcome relief from the dense forest and brush! - LoomisLake051.jpg

Gabletop Mountain reflects in the alpine tarn one-quarter mile below Loomis Lake. Hikemaster Scott got the group back to this pond in no time....much easier than it was on the trip up from here to Loomis.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:39 MDT

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Gabletop Mountain reflects in the alpine tarn one-quarter mile below Loomis Lake. Hikemaster Scott got the group back to this pond in no time....much easier than it was on the trip up from here to Loomis. - LoomisLake054.jpg

Near Spruce Lake, this view of Gabletop Mountain appears through the forest of subalpine fir and Engelmann spruce trees.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:37 MDT

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Near Spruce Lake, this view of Gabletop Mountain appears through the forest of subalpine fir and Engelmann spruce trees. - LoomisLake056.jpg

Hikemaster Scott takes a photo right next to Fern Falls, about 3 miles from the trailhead. Plenty of water to be found on this hike, that's for sure!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:34 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott takes a photo right next to Fern Falls, about 3 miles from the trailhead. Plenty of water to be found on this hike, that's for sure! - LoomisLake058.jpg

There must be a ton of snow melting to create this kind of water flow out of Fern Falls, one of RMNP's most under-rated waterfalls. It's a spectacular sight!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:32 MDT

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There must be a ton of snow melting to create this kind of water flow out of Fern Falls, one of RMNP's most under-rated waterfalls. It's a spectacular sight! - LoomisLake060.jpg

Hikemaster Scott takes a photo of his hikers from the base of Fern Falls. The hikers enjoy the cool spring on a rock overlooking Fern Creek and Fern Falls. It was cool and refreshing!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:30 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott takes a photo of his hikers from the base of Fern Falls. The hikers enjoy the cool spring on a rock overlooking Fern Creek and Fern Falls. It was cool and refreshing! - LoomisLake061.jpg

YMCA hikers decked out in their raingear! Left to right: Jamie, Richard, and Hikemaster Scott. Gotta love those trash bags...they work great!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:28 MDT

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YMCA hikers decked out in their raingear! Left to right: Jamie, Richard, and Hikemaster Scott. Gotta love those trash bags...they work great! - LoomisLake062.jpg

After the fresh rain, the forest on the Fern Lake trail never looked so good. Wet, green, lush fern plants carpet the floor beneath a lovely aspen grove. The smell was so fresh!

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:26 MDT

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After the fresh rain, the forest on the Fern Lake trail never looked so good. Wet, green, lush fern plants carpet the floor beneath a lovely aspen grove. The smell was so fresh! - LoomisLake063.jpg

The last part of the Fern Lake trail can be terribly hot....but on this day, the YMCA group lucked out with overcast skies following a brief downpour and hail storm. Evidence of the wet conditions lingers on the trail in this photo.

hikemaster — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:18:24 MDT

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The last part of the Fern Lake trail can be terribly hot....but on this day, the YMCA group lucked out with overcast skies following a brief downpour and hail storm. Evidence of the wet conditions lingers on the trail in this photo. - LoomisLake065.jpg

Our hike in Wild Basin begins with 1.8 miles to Calypso Cascades (seen here). Art takes a photo along the left edge. We're headed to Finch Lake via a brand new path: the Fisherman's Trail!!! It cuts off 2 miles from the trip to Finch!

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:32 MDT

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Our hike in Wild Basin begins with 1.8 miles to Calypso Cascades (seen here). Art takes a photo along the left edge. We're headed to Finch Lake via a brand new path: the Fisherman's Trail!!! It cuts off 2 miles from the trip to Finch! - FinchLake004.jpg

Hikemaster Scott's parents hike along the Fisherman's trail, which parallels Calypso Cascades and heads up 1.3 miles to Finch Lake. It's a real shortcut to Finch, but the trail is a bit rugged.

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:30 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott's parents hike along the Fisherman's trail, which parallels Calypso Cascades and heads up 1.3 miles to Finch Lake. It's a real shortcut to Finch, but the trail is a bit rugged. - FinchLake007.jpg

Water is high and gushing along above Calypso Cascades. The moist, green look of this area is so inviting. Hikemaster Scott has never taken this path before---that's always new and exciting!

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:28 MDT

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Water is high and gushing along above Calypso Cascades. The moist, green look of this area is so inviting. Hikemaster Scott has never taken this path before---that's always new and exciting! - FinchLake008.jpg

That's a lot of water coming down to Calypso Cascades! Plenty of snow has been melting in the high country.

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:26 MDT

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That's a lot of water coming down to Calypso Cascades! Plenty of snow has been melting in the high country. - FinchLake010.jpg

Hikemaster Scott loves the Fisherman's Trail from Calypso Cascades to Finch Lake. It's a bit faint, wet, and rough in places, but the remote feel and the seclusion make it worth taking...not to mention the 2 mile one-way savings!

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:23 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott loves the Fisherman's Trail from Calypso Cascades to Finch Lake. It's a bit faint, wet, and rough in places, but the remote feel and the seclusion make it worth taking...not to mention the 2 mile one-way savings! - FinchLake011.jpg

Another new photo from the Fisherman's Trail below Finch Lake, displaying the lushness of the area.

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:21 MDT

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Another new photo from the Fisherman's Trail below Finch Lake, displaying the lushness of the area. - FinchLake012.jpg

Hikemaster Scott's 3rd visit to Finch Lake in as many weeks. Unlike previous visits, the water this time was still and gave great reflections of Elks Tooth (center) and Copeland Mtn (right).

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:19 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott's 3rd visit to Finch Lake in as many weeks. Unlike previous visits, the water this time was still and gave great reflections of Elks Tooth (center) and Copeland Mtn (right). - FinchLake014.jpg

Hikemaster Scott at Finch Lake (9950 ft) with his parents, Juli and Art. His parents had been here only once before many years before, so this hike was essentially new for them...and so was the Fisherman's Trail, for all 3 hikers!

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:17 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott at Finch Lake (9950 ft) with his parents, Juli and Art. His parents had been here only once before many years before, so this hike was essentially new for them...and so was the Fisherman's Trail, for all 3 hikers! - FinchLake015.jpg

On the way down from Finch Lake along a traditional path, gorgeous views of Wild Basin's highest peaks open up. Isolation (left) and Alice (right) are both 13-ers, and Tanima (center) isn't much shorter.

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:16 MDT

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On the way down from Finch Lake along a traditional path, gorgeous views of Wild Basin's highest peaks open up. Isolation (left) and Alice (right) are both 13-ers, and Tanima (center) isn't much shorter. - FinchLake017.jpg

Art and Juli hike down the trail from Finch Lake back to Calypso Cascades. A traditional trail was followed, since the Fisherman's Trail is a bit rough in places...

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:14 MDT

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Art and Juli hike down the trail from Finch Lake back to Calypso Cascades. A traditional trail was followed, since the Fisherman's Trail is a bit rough in places... - FinchLake021.jpg

The trail from Confusion Junction to Calypso Cascades is extremely pretty, with magnificent views of Wild Basin and the Longs Peak area. Highly recommended!

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:12 MDT

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The trail from Confusion Junction to Calypso Cascades is extremely pretty, with magnificent views of Wild Basin and the Longs Peak area. Highly recommended! - FinchLake022.jpg

Storm Clouds were gathering to the north of Wild Basin, and rumbles of thunder were periodically heard. Still, Art, Juli, and Scott got barely a drop of rain on the way down.

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:09 MDT

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Storm Clouds were gathering to the north of Wild Basin, and rumbles of thunder were periodically heard. Still, Art, Juli, and Scott got barely a drop of rain on the way down. - FinchLake023.jpg

The Big 4 (left to right): Chiefshead, Pagoda, Longs, and Meeker. These are 4 of RMNP's 7 highest summits, just north of Wild Basin. Storm clouds look manacing this early afternoon.

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:07 MDT

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The Big 4 (left to right): Chiefshead, Pagoda, Longs, and Meeker. These are 4 of RMNP's 7 highest summits, just north of Wild Basin. Storm clouds look manacing this early afternoon. - FinchLake024.jpg

Art, Juli, and Hikemaster Scott stop for a photo along the trail down to Calypso Cascades, having just finished a rejuvenating lunch and catching a quick nap along the trail at this spot.

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:06 MDT

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Art, Juli, and Hikemaster Scott stop for a photo along the trail down to Calypso Cascades, having just finished a rejuvenating lunch and catching a quick nap along the trail at this spot. - FinchLake025.jpg

Art and Juli stop for a picture along the trail. Look at the incredible vista seen here. This is all possible due to a 1978 forest fire in this area that took out many of the trees. New growth is starting to return, so get the views while you can!

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:04 MDT

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Art and Juli stop for a picture along the trail. Look at the incredible vista seen here. This is all possible due to a 1978 forest fire in this area that took out many of the trees. New growth is starting to return, so get the views while you can! - FinchLake029.jpg

Art and Juli hike west towards Calypso Cascades. The enormous mountain in the backdrop is Copeland Mountain (RMNP's 16th highest peak, and 2nd highest in Wild Basin).

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:03:01 MDT

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Art and Juli hike west towards Calypso Cascades. The enormous mountain in the backdrop is Copeland Mountain (RMNP's 16th highest peak, and 2nd highest in Wild Basin). - FinchLake030.jpg

Another photo to the northwest through the dead trees. Dark clouds encourage us that it wouldn't be so good to be atop any of those peaks right at this moment!

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:02:59 MDT

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Another photo to the northwest through the dead trees. Dark clouds encourage us that it wouldn't be so good to be atop any of those peaks right at this moment! - FinchLake031.jpg

The thunder was rumbling and you can see the storms aren't far away. Still, Art, Juli, and Scott remained dry and even got some sun in this area at this time.

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:02:57 MDT

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The thunder was rumbling and you can see the storms aren't far away. Still, Art, Juli, and Scott remained dry and even got some sun in this area at this time. - FinchLake032.jpg

One last photo of Art and Juli in the burn area. They've done this loop 2 years in a row....can't blame them, though, because the scenery along it is outstanding.

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:02:55 MDT

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One last photo of Art and Juli in the burn area. They've done this loop 2 years in a row....can't blame them, though, because the scenery along it is outstanding. - FinchLake034.jpg

Back to Calypso Cascades, completing our loop! The total distance was over 8 miles, and it was a gorgeous hike! A great time was had by all!

hikemaster — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:02:53 MDT

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Back to Calypso Cascades, completing our loop! The total distance was over 8 miles, and it was a gorgeous hike! A great time was had by all! - FinchLake035.jpg

Hikemaster Scott took his parents, Juli and Art, on their first official YMCA hike: Bierstadt Lake! It was fun, informative, and relaxing. The core of RMNP rises in the back, including Otis Peak (far right), that these 3 climbed on August 31, 2008.

hikemaster — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 20:04:18 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott took his parents, Juli and Art, on their first official YMCA hike: Bierstadt Lake! It was fun, informative, and relaxing. The core of RMNP rises in the back, including Otis Peak (far right), that these 3 climbed on August 31, 2008. - BierstadtLake005.jpg

Art, Hikemaster Scott's dad, enjoys the mild weather at Bierstadt Lake. RMNP's highest peak, Longs (14,259 ft), rises in the background.

hikemaster — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 20:04:17 MDT

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Art, Hikemaster Scott's dad, enjoys the mild weather at Bierstadt Lake. RMNP's highest peak, Longs (14,259 ft), rises in the background. - BierstadtLake007.jpg

Great group of YMCA hikers wrap up a lovely lunch break at Bierstadt Lake. Left to right: Sarah, Carol, Hikemaster Scott, Art: Photo taken by Juli.

hikemaster — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 20:04:16 MDT

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Great group of YMCA hikers wrap up a lovely lunch break at Bierstadt Lake. Left to right: Sarah, Carol, Hikemaster Scott, Art: Photo taken by Juli. - BierstadtLake008.jpg

Hikemaster Scott joins YMCA staff members Sarah (left) and Carol (middle) for a photo through the trees surrounding Bierstadt Lake.

hikemaster — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 20:04:14 MDT

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Hikemaster Scott joins YMCA staff members Sarah (left) and Carol (middle) for a photo through the trees surrounding Bierstadt Lake. - BierstadtLake009.jpg

They don't come any "bluer"!!! Bierstadt Lake is an easy, gorgeous destination. By starting at Bear Lake, a nice mostly-downhill loop takes us past this incredible lake!

hikemaster — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 14:07:38 MDT

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They don't come any "bluer"!!! Bierstadt Lake is an easy, gorgeous destination. By starting at Bear Lake, a nice mostly-downhill loop takes us past this incredible lake! - BierstadtLake001.jpg

Bierstadt Lake, 9400 ft. Longs Peak rises to the left, and Thatchtop Mountain rises in the back right.

hikemaster — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 14:07:36 MDT

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Bierstadt Lake, 9400 ft. Longs Peak rises to the left, and Thatchtop Mountain rises in the back right. - BierstadtLake002.jpg