Chautauqua Trail

Today we hiked up Chautauqua Trail from Boulder and then did the Flatirons Loop Trail. Most notable along the trail are the magnificent sandstone flatirons. This bold meeting of the plains to the East and the Mountains in the West makes for a fine setting to enjoy our time together.

This shelter is in just the right place to take a nice water break and enjoy the beautiful view of Boulder and the plains beyond. If you decide to hike this trail, it's not a place to be in a big hurry. There is just too much to see and enjoy, including the geology behind us, the flowers below us and the fellowship around us.

Below is a photo of the newcomers to the group, Teena and Mark Harvey with the third Flatiron behind them. This is their second trip with us and we hope there will be many more with the Harvey's along. After the hike we all decided to go have lunch in Boulder and then.... I confess... we went to Haagen-dazs!! However, the author was good.

Mt. Sniktau

Today we climbed Mt. Sniktau from Loveland Pass. It was a beautiful 59 degrees with a brisk wind pushing us up the hill. While there is still a great deal of snow left in the mountains, the ridges on this climb were relatively snow free, just because of the wind. It made for a nice hike.

The scenery from over 13,000 ft. is terrific. We tried to name as many of the nearby mountains as we could, but there are so many!

At the top we enjoyed some special views and special fellowship. We took some time to share things that have been on our minds and hearts and encouraged each other in our walk with Jesus.

There is something special about being on the summit of a high mountain. You can see for miles around in every direction. Colorado! We are so blessed to be near the red rock walls, cascading waterfalls, lofty peaks, and alpine meadows all bedecked with wildflowers and beautiful views. It's like being in God's garden.

When we returned to our cars we celebrated Chris's birthday! Nothing like a great dessert after a long hike in the mountains!

Of course, there is that moment when everyone stops talking! This community stuff is serious business you know. We have work to do.