Dear Sawatch Range/Salida/BV,
There’s something about you that just makes me want to keep coming back.
I’ve climbed all fo your 14,000ft peaks, and while I can’t say I’ve loved them all (mainly not those to the south), I can say that there is something about your wild side that has me mesmerized. Hiking the Collegiate West, I feel a little bit like I’m on the new frontier, connecting me to the many men and women who risked everything to be here. I hope I have at least an ounce of their grit.
Only ghost towns may physically still exist, but the souls of those who died here are still intertwined with the trees, rocks, and railroad tracks left behind.
Speaking of trees…
Quaking Aspen, do you have a message for me?
“S” mountain, decorated as a Christmas tree, you may be one of my favorite Christmas trees, second only to the one in my dad’s living room that has been up for 20+ years.
Salida, I must say, you’ve got to be the coolest, weirdest town I’ve ever known. Eclectic only begins to describe you.
BV, you seem pretty neat too, though you don’t have Moonlight Pizza. And thanks for your 2 minute shower for 4 quarters.
Needless to say, I’ll be back.
I’ve only touched exploring your depths upon which your nickname “high lonesome” stands. But how could I ever be lonely, when I’ve got YOU, mountains, wildflowers, mountain goats, alpine lakes, and spirts to keep me company?
Until next time.
Love,
Ray & Pacer
(Photo credit for above pic to Peter Maksimow.)
A Dog and Her Girl 