Colorado - Sept. 2011 - A Simple Hike

Yesterday I was accused of nearly killing Miki from a bicycle ride that included a biggish hill.  She called her mom and told on me.  Today, if Tuck and Tooga could call their momma, they would probably tell on me too, that I had nearly killed them on a hike, with a biggish hill.  You would have never known it, cause they couldn't wait to hit the trail, just like Miki yesterday.

Ptarmigan Trail trailhead.  Elevation gain of 990 ft.
4.2 mile round trip.  Lake Dillon in the background
where our campground is.

The first section of the trail, maybe a half mile, was pretty steep before the elevation change became more gradual.  Tuck and Tooga charged straight up with a sniff sniff here and a pee pee there.  Soon we were in the woods, mostly aspen at this point.

We crossed two small streams, both of which
became water parks for the dogs for a few
minutes while they rehydrated.

Two hours later, we reached our destination, an
overlook of the town of Silverthorne.  We ate a snack
and relaxed for a few minutes.

Took a family portrait and headed back down the
mountain.  At this point the dogs were showing some
signs of slowing down.

We passed the two creeks without a pause, the
dogs were on a mission to go "home."

The last vista was that of Lake Dillon, a sight not seen
unless you are high above it.

And as late in the wildflower season as it may be,
there were still many to line the trail.

As has been our routine after strenuous activity in the mornings, we eat lunch and crash in the afternoons.  The same was the routine for today.  The mid afternoon potty break for the boys called.  We harnessed and leashed them for a trip around the campground.  It was apparent that a few steps into it, this would not be a typical pee break.  Tooga seemed a little slower than normal, but still headed for the nearest faint odor to explore.  Tuck on the other hand seemed as though he had been under anesthisia and was having a hard time coming out of it.  He was just in slow motion and so not his normal prancing self.  I wonder if dogs get shin splints?  Oh well, what are you going to do.  Their first big trip to the Rocky Mountains wouldn't be complete without some sore muscles and paws.

My Zen from the road:  After dinner tonight, Miki and I went below the Lake Dillon dam for me to fish and her to read.  I left her the keys and asked where she would be.  She said, "I'll be where I am."  A while later and a good chuckle over what sounded like nonsense, it made sense.  Be present.

Cribbage Win Count:    Miki - 1    Wallie - 2