Hiking Pass Trail

This morning, after breakfast, we packed our backpacks with water, snacks, and cameras, and headed to

Coal Bank Pass which is about 35 miles north of Durango.  We parked and found the

trailhead for Pass Trail.  Today's adventure would take us on a 5 mile round trip up into the mountains.

The trail map was right when it indicated that most of the trail lies on the

side of the mountain with lots of vegetation and

timber.

We had a great time following the trail through the

trees.  We even found places that were still covered in

snow.

In fact, here is a

snowball for all of our family and friends back home who are suffering from the extreme heat of this summer.

We climbed up moderate switchbacks, enjoying all the beautiful

flowers that grow beside the paths.  Near the top of the trail, at the base of the peak, we decided to stop for a

snack.  We rested beside this beautiful little

lake, admiring what God has so beautifully created.  Lauren shared her snack of pretzels with one of the

locals.

It was then time to move on, and just around the bend from the lake, was

this view.  They say in late summer the meadows are filled with blooming flowers.

All too soon, and after lots of fun and laughs, it was time to head down the mountain.

We stopped by the motor home, regrouped, grabbed lunch, and headed into town.  Mark wanted to stop by the car wash to get the car cleaned up from all the back roads we traveled yesterday.  And, we needed to make a trip by Wal-Mart for a few goodies.  Tonight we grilled some yummy jalapeno cheese burgers and then we made a fire just so we could make

S'mores.  A great end to a fun day.