Finding Cabins from the 1800’s in the Mountains of Colorado

On August 21, 2020August 21, 2020 By Isobar ExpeditionsIn Colorado, Hiking, Photo Challenge5 Comments

Here in Colorado, it is not uncommon to find home sites from some of the original settlers being semi-preserved on the lands of state and national parks. Not only are these cabins and ruins fascinating to see, but they are a reminder as to the harshness of nature and how difficult life must have been for those early adventurers. It is hard to imagine what life must have been like living without heat in a wooden cabin deep in the woods with wolves, bears, coyotes, and other animals all around. On a bright, sunny day, it becomes clear why someone would want to brave the elements in order to live in such a beautiful place. It must have been truly special to walk out of your front door every day and see the glory of nature. We have put together a collection of different wooden cabins that we have encountered during our various hikes in the Colorado mountains.

Owl Gulch Trail in Telluride, Colorado

On July 20, 2020July 20, 2020 By Isobar ExpeditionsIn Colorado4 Comments

Located right down the street from the Telluride Historical Museum is a the trailhead for the Owl Gulch Trail. It takes you above the town of Telluride and provides wonderful views of the town as well as Bridal Veil Falls off in the distance. Unfortunately, it is also a road that is heavily traveled by 4-wheel drive vehicles, so you often have to step out of the way. It is also exposed to full sun, so be sure to wear sunscreen and take plenty of water with you.

Town of Telluride with the Ski Slopes Behind

We got on the trail at around 11:00 am in the morning and started our leisurely hike that took us east of Telluride. The mountains around Telluride are absolutely stunning and hiking throughout the valley provides stunning views. The trail also gives a chance to see how quaint and small the town of Telluride has remained throughout the years. Although Bridal Veil Falls, which is the tallest free falling waterfall in Colorado, is far off in the distance, it is still quite spectacular. The power plant that sits adjacent to it is also clearly visible.

Bridal Veil Falls, the Power Plant, and if You Look Carefully, All of the 4-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Ingram Falls, Which Can Be Seen from Telluride

We decided to keep our hike short as we had hiked Bear Creek Trail the day before and our legs were a little tired. The number of vehicles with local guides taking people up the road to Bridal Veil Falls also made it dusty and somewhat less enjoyable. Despite the heat and the traffic, we did enjoy getting out and seeing the beautiful scenery. Afterwards, we went back into town and took the free gondola up to the Mountain Village to enjoy a relaxing lunch and a deserved ice cold beer.

View of Telluride as We Hiked Back to Town

Bear Creek Trail Near Telluride, Colorado

On July 13, 2020August 17, 2020 By Isobar ExpeditionsIn Colorado, Hiking5 Comments

One of the more popular hiking trails near Telluride in Colorado is the Bear Creek Trail. It is popular for a variety of reasons, its proximity to town, the moderate incline, wildflowers, and the stream that runs next to the trail. Like any hiking in the Colorado high country, it is important to drink plenty of water as well as to be aware of the altitude and pace yourself. The trail is nice and wide, which also means that there is plenty of sunshine that can make it a hot hike on a summer day.

The trail winds its way amongst the groves of Aspen trees as it climbs its way for an elevation gain of a little over a thousand feet (300 meters). Although there aren’t many views of Telluride from the trail, the mountain peaks are visible from many locations on the trail making for some dramatic scenery. Because of its popularity, there will be many other hikers on the trail with you making the chances of seeing wildlife slim and perhaps not as much of an escape into nature as some other trails.

Pond with a Beaver Dam Just Outside of Telluride

This was one of our first hikes of the season due to the fact that we haven’t been able to get out as much, so it felt really good to get out on a trail and hike for a few hours. With so many trails to choose from in the area, it is hard not to find one that meets your hiking skill and endurance level. The trail is considered to be moderate, but when hiking in the mountains, there are always going to be strenuous sections with some steep inclines. Hiking Bear Creek Trail was certainly a great way to start our stay in Telluride.