The Crags

This past Saturday I decided it was time to expand my hiking range a bit.  Specifically, since we live farther south now than we did before I wanted to find something in the Colorado Springs/Woodland Park area.  The Crags came up as a popular destination, so the choice was made.

Crossing Fourmile Creek right at the trailhead is a beautiful start to the hike.

I didn't even realize that the snowy summit I could occasionally see was actually Pikes Peak!

These rock formations in the distance looked suitably craggy, so I assumed that was the trail's ultimate destination.  But I was mistaken; the trail actually bent toward the north instead.

Where the trail did end was also quite craggy.  And quite beautiful.  It wasn't hard to figure out what makes the hike so popular.  The summit itself is striking ...

... as are the views ...

... in every direction!

I got an early enough start so that the summit wasn't too crowded, which gave me time and space to take an 18-image panoramic.

Conditions were perfect -- sunny and warm, which the Rocky Mountain Marsh-Marigolds seemed to appreciate.

Thank goodness for the idiot who carved a label into this aspen.  How else would anyone know what it is?  It frustrates me to no end that so many people feel the need to do this.

These Limber Pine cones had actually formed on a downed branch, which looked like it had been detached from a trunk for quite a while.  That's how good the growing conditions have been this spring!

Add me to the list of people who love this hike!  Great variety of ecosystems, going from forest through meadows to the rocky summit.  Reasonable distance of a little more than five miles out and back, and less than 700 feet of total elevation gain.  I spent a wonderful 2 1/2 hours on the trail, and would definitely consider a return visit!