6-29-06
Start: Florence, CO
Destination: Shelf Rd. (14 mi. from Cripple Creek, CO)
Elevation: 6370 ft
Miles: 20.6
Weather: Low 90s
We ended in Florence yesterday, but stayed in Canon City, so dad got up and dropped us off in Florence this morning where we left off. We walked the Arkansas Riverwalk into Canon City, then drove back to Florence again for breakfast. We spotted a family cafe earlier and we were craving a hearty breakfast, so back and forth we went.
Dad called the Canon City newspaper earlier, so we did an interview with them today. And then we hiked out of Canon City and into the mountains. We were surrounded by them, now. We took a lot of pictures. Every time we turned around something looked prettier than it did a minute earlier. Dad jumped ahead of us, and found a great lunch stop. We were right by a little creek, so mom and I took our shoes and socks off and soaked our feet. It was bliss. We ate sandwiches, strawberries, bing cherries, and Pepsis for lunch, reapplied sunscreen, and headed out again. We walked along a valley with great views, and passed by several ranches. We ended our hike where signs warned us of a narrow mountain road, minimum maintenance, and recommended 4WD. Having dad with us in a support vehicle, we had to drive the road. And that's where we ended our day, so we climbed in the truck and took a ride. And what a ride it was!! The road was rough, and only enough room for one vehicle. Cliffs straight up on one side, and a gorge straight down the other. It became quickly obvious why it's called Shelf Road! And what a thrill.
Tomorrow we will walk that same crazy 14-mile road, and I am really excited about it. The views - I can't even begin to tell you - unbelievably gorgeous, huge... it is so overwhelming that I almost want to cry. If only I could just take one huge breath and inhale everything I see and have it stay there forever. We saw a pretty creek with natural green meadow and lush valley growth along its banks. Huge rock walls with hundreds of different color shades. Tall pines that appeared strategically placed - spaced evenly all the way up a slope. Rock formations. Just so much. Too much, almost. I just worry that I'll forget the massiveness to it all. Scenery Overload #3!
Tonight we are staying in Cripple Creek, thanks to Don and Amy, who we met in Illinois when we went through there. We are comfy in a nice cabin - ahh, more beds! What does it feel like to sleep on the ground again? :) After Denver we'll be doing plenty of that, I'm sure!
Anyway, another draining day. Lots of walking, and lots of gawking. Tomorrow should be a pretty walk.
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