Fireworks, concerts, new trail, rain!

July 01, 2022

Because of all the beneficial rain we've been receiving from the monsoons, the fire restriction has been lifted, and fireworks are planned for the 4th. Historically, the Veenstras have opened up the gate and allowed vehicles up the trail to the end of the road and then hiking the rest of the way to the overlook. If you're interested in doing that, you should contact Becky and Mark, who are here on MFL now.

Even when I lived in Colorado Springs, and especially now here in Ouray, I always felt bad for tourists who had planned vacations and it rained. Of course, the flip side is that when it rains, it's cool! I know my sibs, who all live in hot places, would appreciate a respite.

The rain stopped last night just in time for the Mountain Air Music Series last night. It was a beautiful but cool night. In the category of "fool me once," Mike and I wore lots of layers last night, plus gloves, in order to stay warm. Last week, we got cold, and we didn't want to do that again. After the firefighters' concert on July 3, the outdoor concerts move to Ridgway, still Thursday nights, still free. The first one is July 7th.

I took this picture during the concert.
Abrams is far left, and Mike thinks we were
just below the two bumps on the right on our hike

Yesterday, Hale Houts, one of the crew leaders for Ouray Tral Group, had set up a hike on Albany Loop, accessed near the stone building at Ironton. He said it was a moderate, fairly level hike...and he is a liar! Those on the hike with us who have worked/hiked with Hale said that he is, but he means well. Obviously, his idea of level and mine are different. Elevation gain was about 1500 feet, ending at 11,100. Of course, once I was at the top, I forgot the two-hour hike up and just took in the views. The wildflowers were glorious, the best I've seen so far.