https://youtu.be/4W5oveHzz_o Monarch Lake, nestled in the heart of the Arapaho National Forest in Colorado, is a pristine natural gem that encapsulates the serene beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Monarch Lake offers a plethora of recreational opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake's trail loop is a popular hiking destination during the summer months, … Continue reading Monarch Lake ~ Winter Wonderland
A Bald Eagle, perched above Lake Granby. Found throughout North America and commonly referred as a Bald Eagle, although they are not bald. They were dubbed "Bald" because of their all-white heads. We spotted this magnificent creature on our way to Monarch Lake to hike the loop over the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
By Stella J. Raasch What comes to mind when you think of the great outdoors? Initially, you may think of the classic John Candy movie, "The Great Outdoors." Next, your thoughts will likely gravitate toward notions of open space, fresh air, beautiful surroundings…and trash! Since the advent of COVID, flocks of people have migrated to … Continue reading Responsible Outdoor Recreation: Leave No Trace
Stella and I raced up to the mountains the weekend of the Great Blizzard of 2021 to get in some snowshoeing and/or nordic skiing. On our way to Grand Lake, we had made a pitstop in Winter Park to see Stella's cousin who has been working at the Winter Park Resort for the season. We … Continue reading The Great Blizzard of 2021
Stella and I snowshoed the Monarch Lake Loop and ventured up the Crater Lake Trail in the Indian Peaks Wilderness just before the big snowstorm took hold over the weekend of March 13th.
Our return to Base Camp @ Grand Lake has been off to an odd start for the 2020 season. First, Elk Creek Campground opened a week later than usual due to COVID. Second, the campground feels a little bit like a ghost town due to COVID restrictions, which fortunately continue to lighten with each passing … Continue reading An Odd Start…