What’s up Colorado with this weather? I left Arkansas to get out of the hot and it must have followed me. It was 98 degrees yesterday!!
I decided on my first day to just drive through the park and get a feel of the land and scenery and what wildlife I could see. Right outside of Estes, I came upon a herd of Mountain Goats, and then just a little further a large Elk. The action has started before I ever reached the gates of RMNP. I decided to start on Trail Ridge road as it goes all through the park. I had read that going on this road was a pretty scary thing, but hey I’m a Manly Man and I knew I could do this. OH BOY! Going up was great and scenery was beautiful, but coming down my Manly Man became a little challenged. OK. I’ll be honest. ALOT challenged. Have seen several ground squirrels and Elk and also found a grove of Aspens where Woodpeckers were nesting and another type of bird I have not identified yet.
Note for those interested in the Hide Park Wildfire. When I left for the park, the smoke was very heavy. After I finished my day and leaving the park, I could see the smoke in the distance. Rumors are that they may be fighting this fire into the Fall.
12 Comments
Great first day! One of my favorite places.
What gorgeous photos! I particularly like the shot of the ground squirrel in the grass! Have a great time…hope to see more of your spectacular pictures!
You really are on a road trip..This is a wonderful set of pictures..especially ground squirrel in the grass & woodpecker peaking from the tree..Glad your manhoid survived
What a great summer getaway, Steve. Love your photos – can’t wait to hear more about your trip!
Great “camo” on that goat! Hope you are having a wonderful time–and thanks for taking us with you!
Wonderful photos Steve. You saw some great wildlife – hope it cools off there for you.
It is 96 right now (5:00 pm) outside of the park.
Steve, sorry I forgot to mention the scary road
I was used to driving windy roads but that one tested my nerves too. The switchbacks at the top of Mt Evans are a bit … tight too?
Love the images you posted!
Wonderful!!!
Thanks Mia and I thought you were my friend. The hard part was doing it twice. Going over it the first time was bad enough but knowing I had to go back was terrible.
I loved my visit to RMNP! I totally relate to the Trail Ridge road as I am a wimpy man when it comes to heights & possible falls! That road is EASY to get challenged on! Great shot — I’, looking forward to seeing more of your shots in the coming days!
Wow, Steve. Your photos are wondrous as usual, and I love the goat the best. In the side view he looks almost mythical. Thanks for uploading so many photos. What a gift!