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Showing posts with label Skiba. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Skiba. Show all posts
Saturday, September 17, 2011
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.
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.
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?
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, 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.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
The Beatles LOVE AT THE MIRAGE
Before we left Colorado, we decided to have one large splurge on this vacation/trip. We had heard and read good reviews on the Cirque Du Soleil highlighting songs from the Beatles. It was showing at the Mirage....only a shuttle ride away from where we were staying. Tightwads that we are, we went for it! And we loved it.
The energy expended during the performance was simply amazing! The music and acrobatics never stopped. One would have to see it several times to appreciate all of it.
The night of the performance we took a limo ride (courtesy of the Wyndham where we were staying) to the Mirage. After the show we had time to watch the Volcano eruptions in front of the Mirage. We came back later in the week for some nighttime photos and videos.
All of these pics were taken from my phone. Quality was not the best. We were not able to take any pictures during the performance.
Some of the many lights in the Theater area.
Peter in the lobby.
Renee in the lobby.
The 2 of us enjoying the evening.
The lobby, prior to the show.
The energy expended during the performance was simply amazing! The music and acrobatics never stopped. One would have to see it several times to appreciate all of it.
The night of the performance we took a limo ride (courtesy of the Wyndham where we were staying) to the Mirage. After the show we had time to watch the Volcano eruptions in front of the Mirage. We came back later in the week for some nighttime photos and videos.
All of these pics were taken from my phone. Quality was not the best. We were not able to take any pictures during the performance.
Some of the many lights in the Theater area.
Peter in the lobby.
Renee in the lobby.
The 2 of us enjoying the evening.
The lobby, prior to the show.
Hoover Dam
Given the warm temperatures predicted for the area and despite the possibility of large crowds at the Hoover Dam on a Sunday, we chose to check out the historical landmark.
We drove from Las Vegas and headed South through the town of Boulder City and on to the Dam along with many, many other visitors. We stood in line, had our picture taken, went through the scanner and then on into the heart of the dam. There were 2 tours to choose from. We opted for the briefer one that began with a short video show depicting the history of the Hoover Dam. We then boarded an elevator for a 500 foot descent to get an up close look at the power plant generators housed at the base of the dam. Some of the cranes inside the Dam were made in Milwaukee at the PH Harnischfeger Corp. We were also able to see and walk through the original diversion tunnels and stand atop a giant 30 foot pipe where we could feel the rumble of the Colorado River racing below us.
After being inside we walked around the outside to a site that overlooked Lake Mead, the country's largest man-made reservoir. Lake Mead can store up to 9.2 trillion gallons of water. We stopped for a bite to eat at the local deli and then went outside again to get our car. We drove a short distance to another parking area where we could view and walk over the newly completed Hoover Dam Bypass. The Bypass was begun in late Jan. 2005 and completed on Oct 19, 2010. It spans the Black Canyon and connects the Arizona and Nevada highways nearly 900 feet above the Colorado River.
It was a very windy day when we chose to walk across the Bypass. As Renee does not like heights or bridges that tend to sway, she had some hesitation and walked on the inner most side of the walkway. After a few moments however she knew the bridge was stable and she walked to the other end taking pictures as she went along. Peter also took many pictures (all of the ones posted here are credited to him. Both enjoyed the site very much. These are just a few of the many pictures that we took on that day.
Inside the Dam.
On the outside, overlooking Lake Mead and the original visitor's center.
Before our walk over the Hoover Dam Bypass - Mike O'Callaghan and Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Overlooks Lake Mead and the Dam and spans an area between Arizona and Nevada.
Peter standing in approximately the middle of the bridge looking down at Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam.
A look at Lake Mead and the Dam from atop the Hoover Dam Bypass.
After completing the walk across the bridge and arriving back on the Nevada side.
We drove from Las Vegas and headed South through the town of Boulder City and on to the Dam along with many, many other visitors. We stood in line, had our picture taken, went through the scanner and then on into the heart of the dam. There were 2 tours to choose from. We opted for the briefer one that began with a short video show depicting the history of the Hoover Dam. We then boarded an elevator for a 500 foot descent to get an up close look at the power plant generators housed at the base of the dam. Some of the cranes inside the Dam were made in Milwaukee at the PH Harnischfeger Corp. We were also able to see and walk through the original diversion tunnels and stand atop a giant 30 foot pipe where we could feel the rumble of the Colorado River racing below us.
After being inside we walked around the outside to a site that overlooked Lake Mead, the country's largest man-made reservoir. Lake Mead can store up to 9.2 trillion gallons of water. We stopped for a bite to eat at the local deli and then went outside again to get our car. We drove a short distance to another parking area where we could view and walk over the newly completed Hoover Dam Bypass. The Bypass was begun in late Jan. 2005 and completed on Oct 19, 2010. It spans the Black Canyon and connects the Arizona and Nevada highways nearly 900 feet above the Colorado River.
It was a very windy day when we chose to walk across the Bypass. As Renee does not like heights or bridges that tend to sway, she had some hesitation and walked on the inner most side of the walkway. After a few moments however she knew the bridge was stable and she walked to the other end taking pictures as she went along. Peter also took many pictures (all of the ones posted here are credited to him. Both enjoyed the site very much. These are just a few of the many pictures that we took on that day.
Inside the Dam.
On the outside, overlooking Lake Mead and the original visitor's center.
Before our walk over the Hoover Dam Bypass - Mike O'Callaghan and Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Overlooks Lake Mead and the Dam and spans an area between Arizona and Nevada.
Peter standing in approximately the middle of the bridge looking down at Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam.
A look at Lake Mead and the Dam from atop the Hoover Dam Bypass.
After completing the walk across the bridge and arriving back on the Nevada side.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Dash to Milwaukee
On Sat. November 6, 2010 we left Fort Collins and headed to Milwaukee for a quick trip for a couple of dental appointments. Ride to Milwaukee was uneventful and the first night of the trip was spent in Des Moines, Iowa. En route we stopped for a couple of geocaches (only those that were close to the highway) to break up the trip. On Sunday we continued our trip and arrived in West Allis to pick up some of our prints that had been in a show at Walkers Point Center for the Arts. From there we headed to Wauwatosa to stop for a cup of coffee with friends, Paul & Maris. During our brief time with them we learned of a dietary plan that they were following that is meant to reverse diabetes. Food for thought.
We arrived at Sue & Tony's house in St. Francis where they had graciously told us we could spend the nite. Had dinner at St. Francis Brewery and then headed home to watch the Packers.
The following morning we were up early and left for our dental appointments on the North West side of Milwaukee.
Drove back to Fort Collins and arrived home on Nov. 9th, 2010.
On Nov. 8th Heidi had her surgery in Denver so we went to visit with her on the 10th before we would have to leave home again. This time to Santa Fe, New Mexico.
We arrived at Sue & Tony's house in St. Francis where they had graciously told us we could spend the nite. Had dinner at St. Francis Brewery and then headed home to watch the Packers.
The following morning we were up early and left for our dental appointments on the North West side of Milwaukee.
Drove back to Fort Collins and arrived home on Nov. 9th, 2010.
On Nov. 8th Heidi had her surgery in Denver so we went to visit with her on the 10th before we would have to leave home again. This time to Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Our new truck
When we moved to Colorado this summer we debated about having a truck to better navigate some of the back roads. We have been here about 3 months now and we have chosen to stick with our "regular" vehicles.
On the Poudre Canyon Road that we took this past Friday we came across what could be our new/old truck! A beaut don't you think?
On the Poudre Canyon Road that we took this past Friday we came across what could be our new/old truck! A beaut don't you think?
Monday, October 25, 2010
Doug's Birthday
On Sunday Oct 24th, Doug turned 39!
Wow! How did that happen when we weren't looking?
Peter & I met Doug, Heidi and their friend Tom at a climbing gym in Thornton, Co.
Peter had not been climbing for some time so it was a time for a refresher course.
Doug also showed Tom the "ropes" of climbing.
And of course Doug showed us all what a fast monkey he is climbing up those walls.
Peter was not far behind.
Enjoyable morning.
Peter, Tom & Doug scaling the walls.
The family after the climbing.
Wow! How did that happen when we weren't looking?
Peter & I met Doug, Heidi and their friend Tom at a climbing gym in Thornton, Co.
Peter had not been climbing for some time so it was a time for a refresher course.
Doug also showed Tom the "ropes" of climbing.
And of course Doug showed us all what a fast monkey he is climbing up those walls.
Peter was not far behind.
Enjoyable morning.
Peter, Tom & Doug scaling the walls.
The family after the climbing.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
In Search of Moose
On Friday, Oct 22nd we decided to take Hwy 14 from Fort Collins and head west along the Poudre Canyon. We had taken this twice before when we went to Steamboat Springs, but this day was intended to be a leisurely trip to catch the last golden hues of fall and a few moose grazing.
We were not disappointed along the way. The colors were obviously less than a couple of weeks ago, but what remained was brilliant.
Our destination for the day was to be Walden, Co (the moose capitol of the US). We had seen moose in the area before so we hoped we would again be lucky enough to catch sight of a few (or even one!). Alas, it was not to be so. No moose in the area today. We stopped several times for some geocaching along the way and our last stop for the day was to Cameron Pass TH. By the time we arrived there the snow was just beginning to fall gently. Along the trail, it began to come down heavier. The quiet in the woods was wonderful. All you could hear was the snow pellets off our hats and coats. We gave up for the day and headed back home. Perhaps the moose had been warned of our imminent approach? We will try again.
We were not disappointed along the way. The colors were obviously less than a couple of weeks ago, but what remained was brilliant.
Our destination for the day was to be Walden, Co (the moose capitol of the US). We had seen moose in the area before so we hoped we would again be lucky enough to catch sight of a few (or even one!). Alas, it was not to be so. No moose in the area today. We stopped several times for some geocaching along the way and our last stop for the day was to Cameron Pass TH. By the time we arrived there the snow was just beginning to fall gently. Along the trail, it began to come down heavier. The quiet in the woods was wonderful. All you could hear was the snow pellets off our hats and coats. We gave up for the day and headed back home. Perhaps the moose had been warned of our imminent approach? We will try again.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Mount Audubon
Peter set off this morning at 4:30AM to hike/climb Mount Audubon. His plans are to meet up with Doug and Tom. They figure it should be about an 8 hour hike.
Very cold when he left......35 degrees.
Sun is now out and it has warmed to a balmy 45 degrees.
I am staying inside to work on our pictures from our latest trip to Vail and to do some reading. Contemplating baking something to warm the house a bit. Refuse to turn on the heat! Way too early. Expected to be in the low 70's later today. Will then head out for my daily walk.
Peter brought home images from his adventure on Mount Audubon.
Doug and Tom before the trek begins.
Douglas as he reached the top of Mount Audubon.
Doug's headstand when he reaches the top!
Who's happy now?
Peter joins in the fun!
Picking up a rock to return to Renee for her collection!
Very cold when he left......35 degrees.
Sun is now out and it has warmed to a balmy 45 degrees.
I am staying inside to work on our pictures from our latest trip to Vail and to do some reading. Contemplating baking something to warm the house a bit. Refuse to turn on the heat! Way too early. Expected to be in the low 70's later today. Will then head out for my daily walk.
Peter brought home images from his adventure on Mount Audubon.
Doug and Tom before the trek begins.
Douglas as he reached the top of Mount Audubon.
Doug's headstand when he reaches the top!
Who's happy now?
Peter joins in the fun!
Picking up a rock to return to Renee for her collection!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Geocaching near Vail, Colorado
On Wednesday, we decided to do some geocaching in the area.
For those who have not done this, it entails using a GPS to find hidden objects in sometimes unusual and out of the way places. It gets us to go in areas that we may not have explored previously.
We started our day at Vail. The plan was to go West and then South, perhaps as far as Leadville. We never made it to Leadville, but will go there today (hopefully).
Our first find of the day was at Dowd's Rapid right off Hwy 24 and Hwy 6. Well hidden.
Our second one took us to Grouse Creek/Grouse Creek Trailhead a short distance further. This one was a bit more difficult to locate. Peter's persistence paid off when he discovered it in the middle of a beaver's dam! Eureka!
From there we headed south to Minturn and stopped for a BBQ lunch at Kirby Cosmo's BBQ. Enjoyable lunch to complement the pleasant weather.
We continued south to the old mining town of Gilman. Closed to the public but viewable from Hwy 24 overlook. Here too we found a cache hidden in the railing.
From there we headed to our most difficult find yet at Homestake Creek Camping area. I eventually gave up but Peter again persisted by hiking farther back and scrambling over rocks. The area was a great environment for moose (as the sign at the start indicated), but alas they kept themselves hidden from our view.
Our last 2 finds of the day were near Camp Hale where the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division trained during WWII. We found the first easily enough, but the last one escaped our eyes and we will return today. Interesting place.
View of moose habitat in Homestake Creek Camping Area.
For those who have not done this, it entails using a GPS to find hidden objects in sometimes unusual and out of the way places. It gets us to go in areas that we may not have explored previously.
We started our day at Vail. The plan was to go West and then South, perhaps as far as Leadville. We never made it to Leadville, but will go there today (hopefully).
Our first find of the day was at Dowd's Rapid right off Hwy 24 and Hwy 6. Well hidden.
Our second one took us to Grouse Creek/Grouse Creek Trailhead a short distance further. This one was a bit more difficult to locate. Peter's persistence paid off when he discovered it in the middle of a beaver's dam! Eureka!
From there we headed south to Minturn and stopped for a BBQ lunch at Kirby Cosmo's BBQ. Enjoyable lunch to complement the pleasant weather.
We continued south to the old mining town of Gilman. Closed to the public but viewable from Hwy 24 overlook. Here too we found a cache hidden in the railing.
From there we headed to our most difficult find yet at Homestake Creek Camping area. I eventually gave up but Peter again persisted by hiking farther back and scrambling over rocks. The area was a great environment for moose (as the sign at the start indicated), but alas they kept themselves hidden from our view.
Our last 2 finds of the day were near Camp Hale where the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division trained during WWII. We found the first easily enough, but the last one escaped our eyes and we will return today. Interesting place.
View of moose habitat in Homestake Creek Camping Area.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Fall Color in Vail
View of our condo from the mountain top.
Woke up this AM in Vail after arriving late last nite. Too dark to really see what our surroundings were like.
Walked out onto the porch outside our unit this morning to be treated to a beautiful site.
The ski hill is right outside our window.
Color is beautiful. Makes for a golden mountain side ---- hence the name "Golden Peak".
Below our deck is a mountain stream.
Can't wait to explore the area around here.
Should be interesting. As we understand it, no cars in Vail per se.
Bus, foot or bike transportation.
Let the exploring begin!
Pictures to follow......
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