Thursday was time for another hike! A new colleague of mine had reminded me about Spruce Mountain the day before, which I had last hiked back in 2011. More than enough time had passed for a return visit.
Like everywhere along the Front Range right now, blooming wildflowers were prolific. Silvery Lupine graced the grasslands ...
Tall trees kept the lower stretches of the trail shaded and cool.
Did I mention the abundance of Beardtongue? In multiple shades, no less! I wonder if it's like Hydrangea, with different color petals depending on the pH of the soil.
White rock formations signaled that the summit was near.
The views of Pikes Peak to the southwest are still stunning.
The one-mile stretch of trail that runs along the flat, rocky top of the mountain from Pine Junction to the Upper Loop Junction is just one wonderful vista after another.
I didn't remember taking almost this exact same shot 12 years earlier. In my defense, what else are you supposed to do when the spot has a plaque?
I did not expect to see a Wild Turkey hen wandering around the rocky terrain. She didn't seem interested in allowing me a closer or longer observation.
I was pleasantly surprised that this Violet-green Swallow sat still just long enough for a decent shot.
Typical numbers for me -- 5.51 miles and 817 feet of elevation gain in 2:34:22. Worked up a decent sweat without overheating. Overall, a worthwhile return trip!
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