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Saturday, September 17, 2011
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Treasure caching
Peter and I drove about 50 miles east of Fort Collins past the town of Ault to Highway 390 for the start of our geocaching adventure. Our plan for the day was to meander along the Pawnee National Grasslands power trail and head north toward the town of Grover, CO picking up many caches. Caches are hidden about a half mile apart.
Our normal process is to consult the GPS, count down the feet to ground zero, stop the car with both of us getting out to look for the hidden treasure. But the constant repetition due to the relative closeness made this too time consuming. So I took over the driving chores and Peter hopped out each time I stopped. He located the cache, signed the log and hopped back into the car. This worked out better. We stayed on the dusty dirt roads traveled only by us and the occasional oil rig truck , cattle trailer or pick up truck. The road followed the edge of the Pawnee National Grassland. We saw windmills with water troughs, oil wells surrounded by cattle, prancing pronghorn antelope, grazing sheep, and cottonwood trees along an occasional stream crossing. We are thinking that this would be a good place to come back to for pictures in the spring time.
Upon reflection, the farmers, ranchers and settlers of this austere grassland must have been hardy, dedicated, self reliant folks. They must have felt comfortable with themselves and have been highly motivated to endure the demands of this national historic treasure.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Geocaching in West Bend
What do you do while you're waiting two days for your 50th Grade school reunion to happen? When you're Peter and Renee Skiba you geocache!
We traveled to Milwaukee the second week in August to attend Peter's Grade School Reunion. Having graduated in 1961 from St. John Kanty meant that you lived in very close proximity to about 60 other children during many of your formative years. We learned together, we played together, we went to church together year after year. We formed relationships that have lasted decades. But the event was not going to happen until Saturday evening.
Since we had time on our hands we decided to participate in the 4th Annual West Bend Geocache Bash starting in Regner Park. Geocaching is a world wide phenomenon wherein cachers seeks out hidden treasures using a Global Positioning System (GPS) device to guide them to the location of the cache. We registered at noon on Friday with our caching handle, Pixelmagic, and learned that we were to be among a total of about 1600 teams participating in the event. 66 new caches were published specifically for this event in and around the greater West Bend area.
Friday afternoon we headed to the northernmost caches and followed roads, trails and paths to get to the caches. A sports themed series through the woods led us along buggy, shaded, hot trails to find a baseball cache at the end of a long branch propped against a tree and a basketball cache high in a tree trunk complete with hoop and net. The themes and placement were well thought out and funny. We met Dan and Vicki at registration and caught up with them in the woods. It took some serious walking and hiking to complete 30 caches in the afternoon.
Saturday we were back in the rainy West Bend area attempting to get our share of the caches along with several hundreds more walking along the paved and not so paved trails. We had a blast in West Bend. Thanks for the cache.
We traveled to Milwaukee the second week in August to attend Peter's Grade School Reunion. Having graduated in 1961 from St. John Kanty meant that you lived in very close proximity to about 60 other children during many of your formative years. We learned together, we played together, we went to church together year after year. We formed relationships that have lasted decades. But the event was not going to happen until Saturday evening.
Friday afternoon we headed to the northernmost caches and followed roads, trails and paths to get to the caches. A sports themed series through the woods led us along buggy, shaded, hot trails to find a baseball cache at the end of a long branch propped against a tree and a basketball cache high in a tree trunk complete with hoop and net. The themes and placement were well thought out and funny. We met Dan and Vicki at registration and caught up with them in the woods. It took some serious walking and hiking to complete 30 caches in the afternoon.
Saturday we were back in the rainy West Bend area attempting to get our share of the caches along with several hundreds more walking along the paved and not so paved trails. We had a blast in West Bend. Thanks for the cache.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Sheer face of the Third Flat Iron
I have seen the flat irons from a distance. They look big. I'm not sure if I have a short term memory issue relating to the size and scale of mountains, but as I get closer to the exposed rock I am awed by the size of the height and width of the bare rock. It takes us a while to get to the base of the rock formations. We hike along the road and trails past the first, past the second, and finally to the trail that leads to the start of the climb of the third. We hike over rocks and boulders doing a couple of switch backs till we get to the start of the climb. At the base of the climb, I look up and see rock and more rock. This is a tall climb. Years ago I climbed Devil's Tower in Wyoming with both of my sons and with Heidi, Doug's wife. That climb to the top of the Tower was big and it looked big because of its isolation and rise from the surrounding land. This climb exceeds the climb of Devil's Tower but is disguised because of the proximity of the other Flat Irons. We wait our turn behind two pair of climbers who made it to the trail head just before us. Doug is leading our climb and will place temporary protection in cracks and crevices of the rock so that our rope can flow through these anchor points and arrest any fall. My job is to belay him as he climbs and sets a route safe to follow. Once Doug reaches a permanent bolt he will set up a belay station and allow me to climb and clean the route by removing the temporary anchors as I climb to reach his new position on the rocks. This process is repeated as we complete each pitch up the massive vertical slab of rock. Sometimes the anchor is a fancy piece of hardware known as a cam. Other places a simple sling is placed over a knobby rock and a quick draw is attached to allow the rope to freely move through a carabiner. The route up is steep but the rock features many holds that allow a climber to step onto or grab a hold of. We are wearing climbing shoes, skinny soled wraps that use sticky rubber on the bottoms and sides that allow for good traction as we move across the rock. Using the holds and the shoes we move ever higher up the rock with each pitch of the climb. About midway up the rock on the third pitch , Doug noticed a rookie climber close by with a lot of rope hanging slack in front of him. Doug advised him to yell "up rope" to his belayer before moving on. If the climber would have fallen, he would have extended his fall by the yards of extra slack that had accumulated in his rope. The belayer has the responsibility of staying current with his climber. But sometimes there is no visual contact between the climber and the belayer. The climber must communicate with his partner to stay safe. Standard commands are used as climber jargon which sometimes must be shouted up or down the length of the rope. Doug and I follow an easy routine with each pitch. At the start of each new pitch we flake out the rope to eliminate tangle and knots, double check our harnesses and continue upward. This repetition is comforting as we move along the route climbing ever closer to the summit. On the fourth pitch we see peregrine falcons circling and squawking about humans invading their space. The spring months are off limits to climbers on the flatirons because of the nesting habits of the raptors in the areas. This climb has just been opened because the young birds are able to now move from their nests. The final pitch moves over a huge gap in the rock called the gash, that seems to drop down forever. Doug led this spot by climbing upward and found a small traverse to get over the gash. We summit and share the top with four other climbers who join us there. We stand about 1300 feet above the trail we see below populated with walkers strolling along. We look around and decide that this is a good place to be.
After a little conversation and admiration of the surrounding country side, we are offered a ride on the rope of our summit partners. The ride is down, straight down. We share the rope and each take turns rappelling down the rope to the next rappel station. After three rides down we are at the start of the hiking trail leading back to the start of the route.
We congratulate each other as we move down the trail smiling both inwardly and outwardly as we have conquered another obstacle and have done it safely enjoying each others company along the way. Thanks Doug.
Third Flatiron in Boulder
Today is the day for Peter and Doug to ascend the Third Flatiron in Boulder, Co. Peter home at 4:30Am to meet up with Doug. They have plans to be off the rock before the sun gets too high and hot.
The Flatirons are rock formations near Boulder. They are numbered First through Fifth along the east slope of Green Mountain. They are shaped like the flat, metal irons that were used by pioneer women to press their cloths. They consist of conglomerate sandstone and geologists estimate the age of these rocks to be about 290 million years old.
As Peter and Doug complete their multi pitch ascent, they will see the graffiti that has been painted on the side of the Third Flatiron. Students in the 40's, 50's and 60's from the University of Colorado wrote "CU" in giant white letters on the rock. In the 70's, the City of Boulder painted over the illegal graffiti with color very similar to the rock. The match is not perfect and be can be made out if one knows what to look for. On Thursday, Doug took me for a walk near the base and pointed out the marks. Easy to find, once you know what you are looking for.
This climb looks quite strenuous and not for the faint of heart. The whole face of the 3rd, is about 1300 feet. I prefer not to be watching their every step, so will wait for their return to hear the details.
The Flatirons are rock formations near Boulder. They are numbered First through Fifth along the east slope of Green Mountain. They are shaped like the flat, metal irons that were used by pioneer women to press their cloths. They consist of conglomerate sandstone and geologists estimate the age of these rocks to be about 290 million years old.
As Peter and Doug complete their multi pitch ascent, they will see the graffiti that has been painted on the side of the Third Flatiron. Students in the 40's, 50's and 60's from the University of Colorado wrote "CU" in giant white letters on the rock. In the 70's, the City of Boulder painted over the illegal graffiti with color very similar to the rock. The match is not perfect and be can be made out if one knows what to look for. On Thursday, Doug took me for a walk near the base and pointed out the marks. Easy to find, once you know what you are looking for.
This climb looks quite strenuous and not for the faint of heart. The whole face of the 3rd, is about 1300 feet. I prefer not to be watching their every step, so will wait for their return to hear the details.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Climbing Long's Peak
Today is the day Peter, Doug & Heidi have been waiting for and training for. They are now climbing Long's Peak in RMNP. Peter left here last night at 10PM with the plan to meet with Doug & Heidi at the trailhead at about midnight. They had plans to start the long hike in the nite so that they could summit before the ever common afternoon storms broke through. It is now about 2:30PM on Sunday and I have not heard from them. Hoping that that is just because there is no phone service where they are headed.
Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park
Douglas, Heidi and I met at the Longs Peak Ranger Station parking lot at midnight Saturday to start our journey to the summit of Longs Peak. The vertical climb is 5100 feet to the summit of this 14er. We have been training this year by hiking and climbing. I have been hiking in the Poudre Canyon summiting some of the many ranked peaks there, but the hikes have been 8 or 9 miles long and the elevation gain was less than 3,000 feet. We also climbed Mount Elbert which is the tallest of the 14ers in Colorado. One of the big distinctions of Longs is that much of the climb is considered Class 3, requiring use of hands and feet to scramble along rocks. This demands concentration, care and keen sense of balance.
We hiked in the dark using headlamps to light the way through the pine trees. We crossed rushing streams that we could hear better than see. We switched back and forth winding our way up to treeline where the clear sky revealed stars without end. When we glanced back down the slope we started to see a parade of lights dancing through the trees below. Other hikers had started the climb as well. The city lights of metro Denver blazed from below providing a compass of sorts showing east instead of north.
With no sleep since sunrise on Saturday, the effects of the elevation gain are wearing me down. We stop for snacks along the way to stay nourished during this calorie burning trek. At about mile four, I'm feeling a little light headed. My 15 pound pack is starting to feel heavier than it should. At one of the breaks, I curl up on a foam pad and close my eyes, but sleep eludes me. After a few minutes of quiet, I rise and feel a little better. Faster hikers, those of muscle and youth, pass us up as we wish each other well.
The eastern sky lightens as we gain elevation. Instead of dark shadows, I can now make out sharper outlines of the peaks in front of us. The change in terrain is evident as the size of the rocks grow bigger and bigger. Instead of walking, we are now hopping from rock to rock balancing on the soles of our boots hoping that the rock we jumped on is stable and doesn't move. A trail sign announces that the "boulder field" is just ahead. Our dance across the rocks purposefully protects the fragile alpine plants.
With first light we can see tents of campers ahead in the midst of acres and acres of boulders. A structure ahead is the target for our dance line. The building is the site of the solar powered privy. The toilets are really just elevated toilets surrounded by a short fence for privacy. This rest stop is a welcome relief.
The "Keyhole" is the next landmark. Moving through this hole in the rock moves us from warm morning sunlight into the shade of the mountain. We travel along the back side of the mountain close to the base of the rock. The exposure and drop to our right is sharp and steep. Thousands of feet of drop. People have died along this stretch of rock. This is the start of the Class 3 scrambling. Painted markings dot the way winding steadily upward. We take turns leading the way finding the best rock for good footing and looking for hand holds as well. Some sections are crumbly and slippery. We try to avoid those areas as dangerous for our own safety as well as for those below us. Rocks spilling downward can be serious trouble. My progress is slower than Doug and Heidi and they relieve some of my burden by pulling some weight from my pack and adding it to their own. Thanks guys. Progress is slow but steady along the "Narrows". After what seemed like miles through the Narrows we turn into the Trough for an even steeper climb to the "Home Stretch". Every foot step and every hand grab requires attention up this steep section of the rock face. I'm not thinking about breathing at this point because we can see the summit point and the adrenaline kicks in. We made the summit by 10:00. This area is huge and flat and awesome. We remove our packs and celebrate with some snacks.
Heidi unfurls her Ostomy Awareness banner and celebrates her success. Doug upends himself with his traditional summit headstand. I sign in at the summit log and down we go to complete the climb in reverse order. Gravity helps, sometimes a little too much, on the climb down. We move on all fours down the rock facing outward for much of the sheer vertical drop. Where there is no rock protecting against a precipitous fall we turn and face the rock and climb down. There is much traffic on the climb today. We must wait our turn and allow others the chance to climb at their own pace. Doug reminds me that accidents most often happen during the euphoria of success and the rush to get back down. We move slowly and methodically down the sheer rock face.
Doug stopped along the boulder field to filter a new supply of ice cold water for the rest of the trip. The cool water is refreshing. The hike down is long. We're working on energy supplies that have dwindled.
We celebrate that the weather has been great all night and so far during the day, but we see clouds starting to fill the sky. As we near the tree line the clouds now dark with rain start to break loose and share the moisture with and on us. The rain is great, but the lightning storm that came along with it is near and loud and fierce. We hurry along the trail now sloshing through the muddy pathways and sliding on slick rocks. The lightning is scary. It is real and close. We continue quickly along the trail that eventually leads to the trail-head. Despite our rain jackets and pack covers we are drenched to the skin. The rain came in hard, cold, steady streams. Everything was shiny and wet. After changing into whatever dry clothes we had at the cars, we unceremoniously depart anxious to return home and rest our sleep deprived and weary bodies. It will take days before I can take in the literal enormity of this trip to the top of Longs Peak.
We hiked in the dark using headlamps to light the way through the pine trees. We crossed rushing streams that we could hear better than see. We switched back and forth winding our way up to treeline where the clear sky revealed stars without end. When we glanced back down the slope we started to see a parade of lights dancing through the trees below. Other hikers had started the climb as well. The city lights of metro Denver blazed from below providing a compass of sorts showing east instead of north.
With no sleep since sunrise on Saturday, the effects of the elevation gain are wearing me down. We stop for snacks along the way to stay nourished during this calorie burning trek. At about mile four, I'm feeling a little light headed. My 15 pound pack is starting to feel heavier than it should. At one of the breaks, I curl up on a foam pad and close my eyes, but sleep eludes me. After a few minutes of quiet, I rise and feel a little better. Faster hikers, those of muscle and youth, pass us up as we wish each other well.
The eastern sky lightens as we gain elevation. Instead of dark shadows, I can now make out sharper outlines of the peaks in front of us. The change in terrain is evident as the size of the rocks grow bigger and bigger. Instead of walking, we are now hopping from rock to rock balancing on the soles of our boots hoping that the rock we jumped on is stable and doesn't move. A trail sign announces that the "boulder field" is just ahead. Our dance across the rocks purposefully protects the fragile alpine plants.
With first light we can see tents of campers ahead in the midst of acres and acres of boulders. A structure ahead is the target for our dance line. The building is the site of the solar powered privy. The toilets are really just elevated toilets surrounded by a short fence for privacy. This rest stop is a welcome relief.
The "Keyhole" is the next landmark. Moving through this hole in the rock moves us from warm morning sunlight into the shade of the mountain. We travel along the back side of the mountain close to the base of the rock. The exposure and drop to our right is sharp and steep. Thousands of feet of drop. People have died along this stretch of rock. This is the start of the Class 3 scrambling. Painted markings dot the way winding steadily upward. We take turns leading the way finding the best rock for good footing and looking for hand holds as well. Some sections are crumbly and slippery. We try to avoid those areas as dangerous for our own safety as well as for those below us. Rocks spilling downward can be serious trouble. My progress is slower than Doug and Heidi and they relieve some of my burden by pulling some weight from my pack and adding it to their own. Thanks guys. Progress is slow but steady along the "Narrows". After what seemed like miles through the Narrows we turn into the Trough for an even steeper climb to the "Home Stretch". Every foot step and every hand grab requires attention up this steep section of the rock face. I'm not thinking about breathing at this point because we can see the summit point and the adrenaline kicks in. We made the summit by 10:00. This area is huge and flat and awesome. We remove our packs and celebrate with some snacks.
Heidi unfurls her Ostomy Awareness banner and celebrates her success. Doug upends himself with his traditional summit headstand. I sign in at the summit log and down we go to complete the climb in reverse order. Gravity helps, sometimes a little too much, on the climb down. We move on all fours down the rock facing outward for much of the sheer vertical drop. Where there is no rock protecting against a precipitous fall we turn and face the rock and climb down. There is much traffic on the climb today. We must wait our turn and allow others the chance to climb at their own pace. Doug reminds me that accidents most often happen during the euphoria of success and the rush to get back down. We move slowly and methodically down the sheer rock face.
Doug stopped along the boulder field to filter a new supply of ice cold water for the rest of the trip. The cool water is refreshing. The hike down is long. We're working on energy supplies that have dwindled.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Another adventure on Greyrock
90+ degrees here today and Peter has gone up to the Mountain for some relief.
But he did not find it!
Just returned from about a 9 mile hike. He claimed 2 more caches on his way up there, finished all of his water that he brought along, ripped his pants from the bushwhacking he did, but came back with a smile on his face. Such accomplishment! I am lucky to do my 2+ mile walk in the morning. Has been very hot here of late. But oh so cool in the late evening. Wonderful sleeping weather.
But he did not find it!
Just returned from about a 9 mile hike. He claimed 2 more caches on his way up there, finished all of his water that he brought along, ripped his pants from the bushwhacking he did, but came back with a smile on his face. Such accomplishment! I am lucky to do my 2+ mile walk in the morning. Has been very hot here of late. But oh so cool in the late evening. Wonderful sleeping weather.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Mount Elbert
Yesterday, Peter, Doug and Heidi stood on the highest peak in Colorado.
What a joy! They are preparing for their ascent of Long's Peak in August.
Such ambition. This is the 3rd 14,000+ peak that Peter has done since moving to Colorado.
We moved here almost exactly one year ago. On this day a year ago we were driving our truck full to our new home and waiting to close on our new home.
What a joy! They are preparing for their ascent of Long's Peak in August.
Such ambition. This is the 3rd 14,000+ peak that Peter has done since moving to Colorado.
We moved here almost exactly one year ago. On this day a year ago we were driving our truck full to our new home and waiting to close on our new home.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Tree Planting at our new home
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Sunday in June
Peter awoke early this morning.....3AM to be exact with plans to leave the house by 4AM. Today is the day that he and Doug (along with 2 other friends) will be taking an all day hike/climb to Mt. Bierstadt. Mt. Bierstadt's elevation is 14,060' It is in the Mount Evans Willderness area and 2 miles west of Mt. Evans (a popular tourist area where one can travel by vehicle to almost the top.)
Mt. Bierstadt can be seen when taking Guanella Pass from Georgetown along Interstate 70.
This hike/climb is preparation for their August trip to the top of Long's Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park. Peter has wanted to do this for some time and it is good that he is getting the opportunity to do it along with Doug and Heidi.
So this morning he left for his day long hike. The weather in Fort Collins is delightful. In the mid 70's with the sun shining. He packed his winter clothing and has plans to use snow shoes if necessary. What a difference a few thousand feet make weatherwise.
Needless to say, I stayed home and opted to go for a long walk in the nice weather. I headed west along a gravel road and quickly realized that I had forgotten my water. Not a good idea with the temps and the warm breezes blowing. Every time a car passed, I had to turn my head to avoid a mouthful of grit. No singing on this walk. Content enough to listen to my I-Pod and "Car Talk". Tom and Ray are good walking companions and make the journey go easier.
Today is a day to catch up on household things to do, plan for our June and July trip and generally relax. Peter will be home late this evening with sore muscles, many pictures and stories to share.
Mt. Bierstadt can be seen when taking Guanella Pass from Georgetown along Interstate 70.
This hike/climb is preparation for their August trip to the top of Long's Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park. Peter has wanted to do this for some time and it is good that he is getting the opportunity to do it along with Doug and Heidi.
So this morning he left for his day long hike. The weather in Fort Collins is delightful. In the mid 70's with the sun shining. He packed his winter clothing and has plans to use snow shoes if necessary. What a difference a few thousand feet make weatherwise.
Needless to say, I stayed home and opted to go for a long walk in the nice weather. I headed west along a gravel road and quickly realized that I had forgotten my water. Not a good idea with the temps and the warm breezes blowing. Every time a car passed, I had to turn my head to avoid a mouthful of grit. No singing on this walk. Content enough to listen to my I-Pod and "Car Talk". Tom and Ray are good walking companions and make the journey go easier.
Today is a day to catch up on household things to do, plan for our June and July trip and generally relax. Peter will be home late this evening with sore muscles, many pictures and stories to share.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Prospect Ponds Hike
Today we headed to Prospect Ponds for a hike/geocaching adventure. The area is about 10 minutes South of our home. It is a natural area that is popular to hikers/walkers/bikers/dogs.
We took advantage of the cooler weather in the morning to head out. By the time we were done, it was getting very warm and we were glad to head home to cool off.
The first part of our day took us on an easy hike around the ponds. We found the cache easily, signed the log and headed back to get our next cache. The next one was about 1.5 miles from the first so we chose to drive part of the way. We parked at the CSU Environmental Learning Center.
Leaving the parking lot, we walked across a swinging bridge. Of course Peter had to be the funny man and shake the bridge as I was going over. Hmmmmm! Children! Do they ever grow up?! Let's hope not.
We followed the trail to get to the next multi cache at the south end of the Center. Along the way we came across fields of phlox being munched on by deer. Deer that were so used to humans, that they stood still (for a bit) to have their pictures taken. We continued on. Arrived at the coordinates and began our search. We had to get through some high grasses and swat a couple of dozen mosquitoes, but Peter's eagle eyes spotted the clue! It gave us coordinates to the 2nd part of the cache. We again went off trail for a bit and headed toward the La Poudre River. The water was high and flowing rapidly. Spring thaws have brought a lot of water down from the mountains. We found the cache, signed the log and returned to the parking area. There was one more in the area, but we chose to leave that one for another time. We went home to clean up and get some bug lotion for our bites. Another great day enjoying the great outdoors. What a joy it is to live in an area where all of this beauty is nearby and just waiting to be found!
We took advantage of the cooler weather in the morning to head out. By the time we were done, it was getting very warm and we were glad to head home to cool off.
The first part of our day took us on an easy hike around the ponds. We found the cache easily, signed the log and headed back to get our next cache. The next one was about 1.5 miles from the first so we chose to drive part of the way. We parked at the CSU Environmental Learning Center.
Leaving the parking lot, we walked across a swinging bridge. Of course Peter had to be the funny man and shake the bridge as I was going over. Hmmmmm! Children! Do they ever grow up?! Let's hope not.
We followed the trail to get to the next multi cache at the south end of the Center. Along the way we came across fields of phlox being munched on by deer. Deer that were so used to humans, that they stood still (for a bit) to have their pictures taken. We continued on. Arrived at the coordinates and began our search. We had to get through some high grasses and swat a couple of dozen mosquitoes, but Peter's eagle eyes spotted the clue! It gave us coordinates to the 2nd part of the cache. We again went off trail for a bit and headed toward the La Poudre River. The water was high and flowing rapidly. Spring thaws have brought a lot of water down from the mountains. We found the cache, signed the log and returned to the parking area. There was one more in the area, but we chose to leave that one for another time. We went home to clean up and get some bug lotion for our bites. Another great day enjoying the great outdoors. What a joy it is to live in an area where all of this beauty is nearby and just waiting to be found!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Youngs Gulch Trail
We left home this morning intent on finding at least 3 geocaches in the Poudre Canyon on the Youngs Gulch Trail. The first one was to be a multi cache with 3 parts and the 2nd and 3rd were traditional ones.
We drove to the trail head, parked, got out our walking sticks, packed up our backpacks and headed out on the trail by 9:30AM. We knew from descriptions written that we had to walk about 2 miles in and would have to cross a stream several times over. Seems to be a popular area as there were several cars in the parking lot already. Peter had hiked the complete route (8 miles round trip) a couple of days earlier to be the First to Find a new cache that was hidden on the trail.
As we came to the stream crossings, it was comforting to know that "someone" had thought ahead and placed large boulders in the water to use as stepping stones. Some were covered in water but for the most part they made the crossings easier. As I stood on one side of the stream I had to talk myself into crossing to the other side. Fear of falling is a big part of my hesitancy, but I made it.
Along the way we were blessed to find many new wildflowers blooming. Some we had not seen, but many that were known to us by name....Pasque Flower, Golden Banner, Larkspur, Shooting Stars, Colorado Columbine (first one to see this season) and the Star Flower. We're sure there were others, but too many to name. We came across many other hikers along the way with dogs of many varieties.
We only went off trail to find the clues for the caches and to grab a bite to eat. Then we pressed on to the next stop.
We were doing fine. I was counting the stream crossings and had made it to 12 without any problems. Then # 13 came along. Must have been getting tired, or it was just an unlucky number....anyhow I slipped. Landed on my left fingers and knees. Then somehow landed on my chest. Peter came to the rescue. Finger started to swell and was painful, but we had places to go....so we continued on our way! Before reaching the cache at the end of the trail, we counted a total of 18 crossings. Some more difficult than others. Later in the hike we came across another hiker who had a large "bite" taken out of his straw hat. Asked him what happened, and he said a pterodactyl swooped down and bit it off. Said he had to fight it off! We then wondered if that same pterodactyl was responsible for knocking me off the boulder in the 13th stream crossing. Amazing! So nice to have a worthy explanation of what happened and not think that it was just me being clumsy!
We did accomplish our task that we set out to do. Found all of the caches, had a wonderful hike in the wild, did not break anything and enjoyed each others company. What more could you want on a spring day in Colorado?
We drove to the trail head, parked, got out our walking sticks, packed up our backpacks and headed out on the trail by 9:30AM. We knew from descriptions written that we had to walk about 2 miles in and would have to cross a stream several times over. Seems to be a popular area as there were several cars in the parking lot already. Peter had hiked the complete route (8 miles round trip) a couple of days earlier to be the First to Find a new cache that was hidden on the trail.
As we came to the stream crossings, it was comforting to know that "someone" had thought ahead and placed large boulders in the water to use as stepping stones. Some were covered in water but for the most part they made the crossings easier. As I stood on one side of the stream I had to talk myself into crossing to the other side. Fear of falling is a big part of my hesitancy, but I made it.
Along the way we were blessed to find many new wildflowers blooming. Some we had not seen, but many that were known to us by name....Pasque Flower, Golden Banner, Larkspur, Shooting Stars, Colorado Columbine (first one to see this season) and the Star Flower. We're sure there were others, but too many to name. We came across many other hikers along the way with dogs of many varieties.
We only went off trail to find the clues for the caches and to grab a bite to eat. Then we pressed on to the next stop.
We were doing fine. I was counting the stream crossings and had made it to 12 without any problems. Then # 13 came along. Must have been getting tired, or it was just an unlucky number....anyhow I slipped. Landed on my left fingers and knees. Then somehow landed on my chest. Peter came to the rescue. Finger started to swell and was painful, but we had places to go....so we continued on our way! Before reaching the cache at the end of the trail, we counted a total of 18 crossings. Some more difficult than others. Later in the hike we came across another hiker who had a large "bite" taken out of his straw hat. Asked him what happened, and he said a pterodactyl swooped down and bit it off. Said he had to fight it off! We then wondered if that same pterodactyl was responsible for knocking me off the boulder in the 13th stream crossing. Amazing! So nice to have a worthy explanation of what happened and not think that it was just me being clumsy!
We did accomplish our task that we set out to do. Found all of the caches, had a wonderful hike in the wild, did not break anything and enjoyed each others company. What more could you want on a spring day in Colorado?
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Visitors from Wisconsin
This week our dear friends Paul and Maris Fried stayed with us in Fort Collins, Colorado. They drove one thousand miles to visit and spend time together. We had the opportunity to show them around the Front Range and do some hiking in the Poudre Canyon. They joined us seeking out geocaches in town and in the surrounding regions.
Paul and Peter took the hike to the top of Horsetooth Rock and Renée and Maris hiked the trail to Horsetooth Falls.
Paul was able to complete a Earthcache with information he gained from signage at the top of the Rock.
The Rock overlooks the City of Fort Collins to the north.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Paul and Maris' visit to Colorado
In May 2011, Paul and Maris drove from Milwaukee to visit us.
During their visit with us, we introduced them to our surroundings as well as our newest hobby...geocaching.
On one of the first days they were here, we took them for a drive north and Wwest of Fort Collins on a road that runs along the Poudre River and through the canyon. No matter what time of the year we head out in this direction there always seem to be new sites to see. On this trip, we noticed that the river was beginning to swell. Rafters were enjoying the exciting ride.
Our goal for the day was to head about 20 miles west to pick up 3 new caches that had been placed in the canyon along the road. The first one had us (not Renee) climbing down the steep slope in search of the elusive cache. We never did find this one and actually have been back since with no luck as well. Giving up on that one for the moment, we headed back east to pick up the remaining 2 and have our lunch. Success! Both were found in record breaking time. We had our lunch along the river and headed back to town. Along the way, we were all treated to a small grouping of Big Horn Sheep that had progressed down from the mountains to feed on the new grasses. Great photos.
During their visit with us, we introduced them to our surroundings as well as our newest hobby...geocaching.
On one of the first days they were here, we took them for a drive north and Wwest of Fort Collins on a road that runs along the Poudre River and through the canyon. No matter what time of the year we head out in this direction there always seem to be new sites to see. On this trip, we noticed that the river was beginning to swell. Rafters were enjoying the exciting ride.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Exploring Craig, Colorado
As it has been raining/snowing in the Steamboat Springs area we decided to head West and explore the small town of Craig, Colorado. It is about 45 miles west of here.We did some caching for the day and actually exceeded our old record.
We are working on a 100 day straight challenge. Finding at least 1 per day for 100 straight days.
We are now up to 98 days. Really never thought we would get to this point.
There are so many places to see in the Craig area.
We started the day in the hills above Craig. Peter chose to do the climb above the town. It was muddy from all the rain and snow melt. I took pictures of him from down below. As I was waiting for Peter to come back down, 2 local police cars pulled up. Thought they were there to see if I needed any help (which I did not). Oh no, they were there to say that they had reports of "someone taking pictures of kids in the area". We were parked near the high school. I cleared up the issue. They seemed satisfied after taking my license information, but I did not like the process at all. Soon after that I drove the car to another location to pick up Peter from the other end. Sometimes local Police can be too vigilant. We have been stopped before, but not for taking pictures!
Heading back west again today as it continues to rain/snow here.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Wood Carvings in Colorado
While traveling through Craig, Colorado we came upon this park that had incredibly detailed wood carvings. There were probably over 30 in this one park alone and another 25 or so scattered around town.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Heading to Rabbit Ears Pass
Cloudy morning.
Rain expected here in Steamboat.
We are headed up to Rabbit Ears Pass to do some exploring.
Possibly snowshoeing or x country skiing.
Will depend on the conditions of the snow.
Rain expected here in Steamboat.
We are headed up to Rabbit Ears Pass to do some exploring.
Possibly snowshoeing or x country skiing.
Will depend on the conditions of the snow.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Sunday in Steamboat Springs
Sunday morning was bright and beautiful. Birds were singing outside of our room and it looked like it would be a wonderful day again.
We headed into town to attend Mass and then to Winona's for a breakfast. It is said that Winona's has the "best cinnamon rolls in Colorado". We were definitely tempted. The rolls were the size of dinner plates. We were going to share one, but after the breakfast that we ate, we chose to skip that portion of the meal. Perhaps having one without anything else later in the week would be a better option. We may come back during the week.
After breakfast, we chose to walk along the Yampa River to get a few caches in the downtown area. The river was swollen and moving rapidly. We walked for about a mile until it became too warm and uncomfortable for us. We did not have our hats with us and the sun was too hot for our heads. We are sooooo delicate!
We headed into town to attend Mass and then to Winona's for a breakfast. It is said that Winona's has the "best cinnamon rolls in Colorado". We were definitely tempted. The rolls were the size of dinner plates. We were going to share one, but after the breakfast that we ate, we chose to skip that portion of the meal. Perhaps having one without anything else later in the week would be a better option. We may come back during the week.
After breakfast, we chose to walk along the Yampa River to get a few caches in the downtown area. The river was swollen and moving rapidly. We walked for about a mile until it became too warm and uncomfortable for us. We did not have our hats with us and the sun was too hot for our heads. We are sooooo delicate!
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Heading to Steamboat Springs
On Saturday, Peter & I headed West to spend a week in Steamboat Springs.
The plan was to relax, explore, do some caching,photography and perhaps a little snowshoeing or some cross country skiing.
The weather in Fort Collins was good and there was definitely no snow to be found there.
We borrowed the snowshoes from Doug and Heidi and took off to see if we could find any last vestiges of snow in the mountains.
We drove West on Highway 14. This highway follows the Poudre River and cuts through the canyon. We stopped along the way to catch a couple of caches. When we stopped, we were rewarded with some beautiful spring wildflowers. Stopping for pictures was a definite must.
We spotted only one moose along the way, but it was too far off in the marsh to make a worthwhile shot. The colors in the marsh were spectacular.
We made it to the condo by dinner time without any problems. We unpacked, had dinner and relaxed for the rest of the evening with plans to explore the area in the daylight. We were here last fall, so it would just be a matter of getting reacquainted with everything.
The plan was to relax, explore, do some caching,photography and perhaps a little snowshoeing or some cross country skiing.
The weather in Fort Collins was good and there was definitely no snow to be found there.
We borrowed the snowshoes from Doug and Heidi and took off to see if we could find any last vestiges of snow in the mountains.
We drove West on Highway 14. This highway follows the Poudre River and cuts through the canyon. We stopped along the way to catch a couple of caches. When we stopped, we were rewarded with some beautiful spring wildflowers. Stopping for pictures was a definite must.
We spotted only one moose along the way, but it was too far off in the marsh to make a worthwhile shot. The colors in the marsh were spectacular.
We made it to the condo by dinner time without any problems. We unpacked, had dinner and relaxed for the rest of the evening with plans to explore the area in the daylight. We were here last fall, so it would just be a matter of getting reacquainted with everything.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Climbing, Skiing etc
Peter is off this weekend to do some climbing and skiing with Doug and Heidi.
On Saturday, they enjoyed the exceptionally warm weather and climbed in Golden. Heidi was working, so Doug and Peter went with another friend Tom to the Cliffs of Golden. Long and exhausting day for them. Early to bed so they could get up early on Sunday morning to head to Loveland Pass for a day of skiing.
This is the first day that Heidi has been able to ski since her surgery in the Fall. I am told (by phone) that she is enjoying herself. Good to be back out enjoying what she loves to do. Peter called this afternoon to give me an update on what he has been up to. He was just finishing off his lesson and headed back to the top for another run. He said during his lesson, they got "stuck" at the top because of the white out conditions. Some of the best weather/conditions they have experienced in years.
Just a bit ago, Peter called again to say that he was quitting for the day. Thinks he has had enough. Doug and Heidi are still out enjoying the snow. It continues to snow there.
Here in Fort Collins, I went out to do a hike on my own and to do some geocaching. Well, I had just begun and the wind picked up tremendously. I could see in the distance the fire that was burning in the Horsetooth Reservoir. As I was heading out, it began to rain. What's a little rain, right?
Well it got harder and harder. With the strong winds, I gave up and headed home. Then the snow began! What a day. Guess I'll just stay in and do some painting.
Here is one of my new spring time flower paintings.
On Saturday, they enjoyed the exceptionally warm weather and climbed in Golden. Heidi was working, so Doug and Peter went with another friend Tom to the Cliffs of Golden. Long and exhausting day for them. Early to bed so they could get up early on Sunday morning to head to Loveland Pass for a day of skiing.
This is the first day that Heidi has been able to ski since her surgery in the Fall. I am told (by phone) that she is enjoying herself. Good to be back out enjoying what she loves to do. Peter called this afternoon to give me an update on what he has been up to. He was just finishing off his lesson and headed back to the top for another run. He said during his lesson, they got "stuck" at the top because of the white out conditions. Some of the best weather/conditions they have experienced in years.
Just a bit ago, Peter called again to say that he was quitting for the day. Thinks he has had enough. Doug and Heidi are still out enjoying the snow. It continues to snow there.
Here in Fort Collins, I went out to do a hike on my own and to do some geocaching. Well, I had just begun and the wind picked up tremendously. I could see in the distance the fire that was burning in the Horsetooth Reservoir. As I was heading out, it began to rain. What's a little rain, right?
Well it got harder and harder. With the strong winds, I gave up and headed home. Then the snow began! What a day. Guess I'll just stay in and do some painting.
Here is one of my new spring time flower paintings.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Hike to Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
Visiting from Milwaukee, Sue and Tony, joined us on a trek out to Rocky Mountain National Park. On Thursday morning, following a simple breakfast we drove out Highway 34 through Big Thompson River Canyon. This is a windy stretch of road that wends its way through rocky outcroppings that tower above the roadway. The many facets of rough rock surfaces displayed hues of brown, green and red rocks reflecting the sunlight and dazzling our eyes. Of course we saw horses and cattle along the way but we also saw llamas among the domesticated animals.
Up close and personal we saw mountain sheep and deer along the roadside. Inside the Park the animals were hidden away since we arrived at noontime.
Our objective was to get to Bear Lake and check out the trail and the Lake. The elevation at the Ranger Station is 9,475 feet. The temperature is still freezing and the ground is covered with feet of snow packed down by the many visitors to this site.
After a short but slippery walk to the lake shore, we discovered that the shore was not there. We were out on the frozen lake. Renée suggested that we walk to the other side to see the frozen ice flow across the lake below Hallett's Peak off in the distant skyline. With other intrepid hikers we ventured forth across the lake. At spots along the way we noticed holes in the snow pack where previous hikers dug down to the ice of the lake.
The sunny skies that warmed us as we left Fort Collins were gone by the time we departed Bear Lake. As we drove home snow blew fiercely across the road changing the color hues of the landscape to a predominate grey.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Reconnecting with Family
Wednesday morning we rose slowly. Sue and Tony still had to rearrange their personal clock for mountain time.
Following breakfast and of course the puzzles, we started to look through old pictures that had been stored in a trunk for many years. These were a mixture of pictures from Grandma and Grandpa Skiba, Sister Gabriella etc. They had at one time been in Grandma & Grandpas house. When their house was sold, we became the keepers of these memories. It was time to share with other family members who would appreciate these mememtos. Peter & Sue took charge of sorting out the pictures, and putting them into different envelopes for siblings and cousins. Sue and Tony will bring them with them when they return home. Some will be dropped off in Albuquerque on their visit later in the week to see John & Pat. John & Pat moved from Milwaukee in Spring of 2010. Seems like the entire Skiba clan is moving away from Milwaukee. Can Sue and Tony be far behind?
Weather had warmed by noon and looked to be a delightful day. We headed West a couple of miles to explore one of Fort Collins' Natural sites. Our hike was to be in conjunction with discovering a couple of caches along the way. We figured we must have put in about 4 miles traipsing up and down the trails, fighting the weeds, the brambles, crossing the river a couple of times........
Following breakfast and of course the puzzles, we started to look through old pictures that had been stored in a trunk for many years. These were a mixture of pictures from Grandma and Grandpa Skiba, Sister Gabriella etc. They had at one time been in Grandma & Grandpas house. When their house was sold, we became the keepers of these memories. It was time to share with other family members who would appreciate these mememtos. Peter & Sue took charge of sorting out the pictures, and putting them into different envelopes for siblings and cousins. Sue and Tony will bring them with them when they return home. Some will be dropped off in Albuquerque on their visit later in the week to see John & Pat. John & Pat moved from Milwaukee in Spring of 2010. Seems like the entire Skiba clan is moving away from Milwaukee. Can Sue and Tony be far behind?
Weather had warmed by noon and looked to be a delightful day. We headed West a couple of miles to explore one of Fort Collins' Natural sites. Our hike was to be in conjunction with discovering a couple of caches along the way. We figured we must have put in about 4 miles traipsing up and down the trails, fighting the weeds, the brambles, crossing the river a couple of times........
When the outdoor escapade was completed we headed into Old Town Fort Collins for a treat. What better place to go then Ben & Jerry's? Peter & I were able to find a wonderful smoothie that was dairy free while Sue and Tony indulged themselves with some ice cream. It was even warm enough by then to sit in the square and enjoy our treat. But we couldn't go home yet....oh no! One more cache to find a couple of blocks from where were sitting! Euraka! That completed, we headed home for dinner and news and a game of Dominoes. 
A delightful day. Tomorrow we head to Rocky Mountain National Park.
A delightful day. Tomorrow we head to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Family Visit from Milwaukee
On Tuesday Peter & I picked up Peter's sister, Sue and hubby, Tony from Milwaukee at the Denver Airport. Flight was good. No luggage missing even though they changed flights midway in Kansas City. This is the first time for either of them to be in Colorado, so the places to see were endless.
First stop out of the airport was to head into Denver and visit the 16th Street Mall. Sue and Tony had not eaten on the flight except for that VERY LARGE bag of pretzels and peanuts. So we headed to The Corner Bakery on the mall for some needed fuel. We then took the shuttle farther West for a visit to the Tattered Cover Bookstore. Now only 2 floors filled with books etc, but well worth the visit. Sue and Tony bought a few items for the grand kids back home and then we headed outside to fight the wind again. Winds were very strong that day. Really needed a couple of rocks in the pocket for stabilization!
On our way out of Denver we were able to note the large smoke plumes from the fire in Golden. With the high winds for the last couple of days, it has been extremely difficult to get it under control.
The plan then was to head to Arvada to meet with Doug & Heidi for some dinner at Udi's. Given that we were a bit early for the scheduled meet up, we popped out our GPS and located a cache that was close to the eatery. Tony found his first Geocache! Held it up for all of us to see and said "could this be it?" and of course it was! Just trying to keep our daily streak alive! Hooray!
Dinner with the "kids" was great. We sat and chatted over dinner and drinks. It was so nice not to have the wait staff rush us out. An enjoyable visit and reunion for all.
First stop out of the airport was to head into Denver and visit the 16th Street Mall. Sue and Tony had not eaten on the flight except for that VERY LARGE bag of pretzels and peanuts. So we headed to The Corner Bakery on the mall for some needed fuel. We then took the shuttle farther West for a visit to the Tattered Cover Bookstore. Now only 2 floors filled with books etc, but well worth the visit. Sue and Tony bought a few items for the grand kids back home and then we headed outside to fight the wind again. Winds were very strong that day. Really needed a couple of rocks in the pocket for stabilization!
On our way out of Denver we were able to note the large smoke plumes from the fire in Golden. With the high winds for the last couple of days, it has been extremely difficult to get it under control.
The plan then was to head to Arvada to meet with Doug & Heidi for some dinner at Udi's. Given that we were a bit early for the scheduled meet up, we popped out our GPS and located a cache that was close to the eatery. Tony found his first Geocache! Held it up for all of us to see and said "could this be it?" and of course it was! Just trying to keep our daily streak alive! Hooray!
Dinner with the "kids" was great. We sat and chatted over dinner and drinks. It was so nice not to have the wait staff rush us out. An enjoyable visit and reunion for all.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Adventure at Denver's Zoo
Andy, Hailey & Emily came from Wyoming to visit for the weekend. Tara was unable to join the family due to work schedule that interfered. Hoping that next time everyone will be able to make it for a visit.
On Friday night, Doug joined all of us at the climbing gym in Boulder. The girls were more interested in going down the slide, but everyone did seem to enjoy themselves. Even Renee who spent the time reading and people watching.
Saturday's plan was to go to the Denver Zoo. A beautiful day was in store for us. The zoo was crowded as many others had the same idea for a Saturday outing. We walked through most of the exhibits, stopped for lunch, the girls bought a souvenir to take home and a promised ride on the train were just some of things we did. We left tired and some slept on the hour ride back home.
On Friday night, Doug joined all of us at the climbing gym in Boulder. The girls were more interested in going down the slide, but everyone did seem to enjoy themselves. Even Renee who spent the time reading and people watching.
Saturday's plan was to go to the Denver Zoo. A beautiful day was in store for us. The zoo was crowded as many others had the same idea for a Saturday outing. We walked through most of the exhibits, stopped for lunch, the girls bought a souvenir to take home and a promised ride on the train were just some of things we did. We left tired and some slept on the hour ride back home.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Rocky Mountain Raptor Program
Peter and Renée visited the Environmental Learning Center while geocaching in Fort Collins on Wednesday. They noticed that the were fenced in enclosures on the premises that had wild birds of prey within. Pretty cool wild birds!
Two geocaches remained to be found when we quit for the day. We returned on Thursday and found the caches on the trails nearby. When we returned to the parking area we noticed some volunteers near the enclosures with something flapping huge wings. As we approached we saw that the flapping wings belonged to a golden eagle that we learned was ill and unable to fend for itself in the wild. It is being kept and trained as an educational ambassador for the Program. We were treated to a special opportunity to learn about this eagle and about the Program which has a rich and successful history. Originally linked to the University (CSU) it was spun off and now has a home of its own right here in Fort Collins. Volunteers travel the State with the birds and provide educational opportunities for lots of folks. They treat and release raptors like eagles, owls, hawks and falcons. Since 1979 the have cared for over 5,000 injured raptors.
Two geocaches remained to be found when we quit for the day. We returned on Thursday and found the caches on the trails nearby. When we returned to the parking area we noticed some volunteers near the enclosures with something flapping huge wings. As we approached we saw that the flapping wings belonged to a golden eagle that we learned was ill and unable to fend for itself in the wild. It is being kept and trained as an educational ambassador for the Program. We were treated to a special opportunity to learn about this eagle and about the Program which has a rich and successful history. Originally linked to the University (CSU) it was spun off and now has a home of its own right here in Fort Collins. Volunteers travel the State with the birds and provide educational opportunities for lots of folks. They treat and release raptors like eagles, owls, hawks and falcons. Since 1979 the have cared for over 5,000 injured raptors.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Spring in Colorado
A breath of fresh air!
69 degrees and it is only March 10th.
First time this season to open the windows.
How wonderful!
69 degrees and it is only March 10th.
First time this season to open the windows.
How wonderful!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Carroll Canyon Trek
Peter joined fellow Wyndham Vacation Resort timeshare guests staying at the Sedona Resort on a hike to Carroll Canyon. The hike was hosted by Wyndham Activities Supervisor, Elyse James. Fellow Hikers included Charleen and Bob from Albuquerque and their neighbors and friends, Vikki and Herman. Elyse confirmed that we were about to go on a moderate hike with steep and muddy areas and gave each of us the opportunity to opt out if we wanted to. With no defectors, we started out on city streets to get to the trailhead for the start of several Carroll Canyon hikes. With plenty of water on hand we ventured out onto the trail. Elyse explained the fragile environment we were hiking through and that uncompacted soil could be damaged by mere foot pressure. That damage could take decades of time to overcome. We were careful to stay on the trails and not wonder off trail. Leader Elyse, while setting an aggressive pace, stopped from time to time to make sure everyone was okay.
We reached the culmination of our trek dubbed "Elyse's Overlook" and peered over the edge of massive rocks onto the wet wash of Carroll Canyon. With Thunder Mountain in the background the city of Sedona came into clear view.
With pleasant company and good conversation the trip was over it seemed in no time. With one hike under my belt what could be next on the agenda? Maybe a little geocaching?
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