I hadn't plan to go for a hike Monday morning. But the combination of fresh snow on Sunday, conditions favorable to a pretty sunrise, and the day off for spring break proved too powerful to resist. Gateway Mesa Open Space is within 20 minutes of my home, and seemed like it would have good views to the east. So that's where I found myself at first light yesterday!
I was honestly a little concerned when I started out on the trail. Power lines, fences, buildings -- all in line of sight wherever I looked. Then I hit the top of the mesa, and things got MUCH better.
I got there not a moment too soon. The sun was fast approaching the horizon when I found these two trees.
Honestly, not sure I could have found a better spot even if I'd had more time to look. They frame the rising sun perfectly, and with a nice amount of snow still remaining in the scene.
The low winter sun cast perfect golden light on other trees, as well.
I had NO idea the trail was a sort of Angels Landing Starter Kit, with steep rock steps and chains to aid in climbing them. But the icicles seemed to really like the sheer cliff face.
Speaking of icicles, I love shooting them. I haven't gotten an icicle photo I'm in love with yet, but I don't hate this one.
When the trail wound around the west side of the mesa, the trees and the snow both grew thicker. If it wasn't for the sound of traffic on nearby Colorado 86, you'd swear you were deep in Rocky Mountain National Park.
I'd read there was an abandoned pickup along the trail. I hadn't read that it was upside down. I imagine there's an interesting story involved.
Rocky Passage is slightly misnamed, since there's a tiny sign at the far end that says not to climb it. So, technically not a passage.
I covered the 2.91 miles in a very leisurely 2:35. Frequent photo stops and an icy path will do that. But an unexpectedly wonderful start to any day, let alone a Monday!
