Mohawk Lakes

While I usually have to work most Saturdays and Sundays, I lucked out in mid-July with a full weekend off--better believe that I took full advantage.

I spent Saturday in Breckenridge with Anna and Alex. We got an early start, and were there by 8:30 am. The familiar ski town was oddly masqueraded in the summer season. I could not wrap my head around the green--almost naked--slopes, which are usually covered in feet of white snow. It was still a beautiful sight in its own right.

Ready for a challenge, we parked at the Spruce Creek Trailhead and embarked on a popular yet moderately difficult hike to Mohawk Lakes. Roundtrip, this highly-rated summer hike clocks in at just under seven miles.

The first two miles were relatively flat through a forest of aspen, fir, and spruce trees.

                                       

Afterwards, the trail steepened to Mayflower Lakes, Continental Falls, and mining remains.

It was difficult to ignore the views as we climbed higher and higher--a total elevation gain of 1,810 ft.

Lower Mohawk Lake lies at treeline below Mt. Helen.









Through another steep and winding climb, we passed other hikers heading back, which encouraged us to keep going. Just as I thought we would never make it, a deep blue lake stretched before my eyes--Upper Mohawk Lake.

At a maximum elevation of 12,073 ft, fantastic valley views of the Ten Mile Range lay before us.

Completed in only four hours, this hike was my favorite to date. We pushed ourselves through to the end, which was an enormous accomplishment. Our biggest challenge was the change in elevation. This meant both physical fatigue from the climb and drastic temperature changes from base to summit. At any rate, our hard work paid off, as we treated ourselves to a relaxing afternoon in downtown Breckenridge, soaking in the sun, beer, and grub.

I joined Anna and Alex again on Sunday for a laid-back morning in nearby Boulder. We shared a tasty breakfast at the local favorite, The Buff--named after the University of Colorado's buffalo mascot.

Afterwards, we strolled through the Pearl Street Arts Festival, where the local artists had their best work on display. I thoroughly enjoyed downtown Boulder, reminiscent of our family visit there years ago. It is a beautiful, clean, and active town nestled at the base of the mountains.

The afternoon was rounded out with patio drinks and sunshine.

 

Back in Denver, I joined a coworker that night for the outdoor jazz concert in City Park--a weekly summer event.



After spending so many weekends at Whole Foods, this was by far my favorite weekend since I moved. Although I love living in Denver, it was great to get out of town for a few days and spend time in the mountains!
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The Reservoir

Similar to June, July is flying by. The summer heat is intense, but there's no room to complain after the rainy spring this year. Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through yoga practice and run club. I also tag along for a workout at Red Rocks when Anna and Alex extend the invitation.

As far as new adventures, I recently took a longer bike ride along the Cherry Creek Trail. This 40-mile paved trail begins downtown and travels southeast through various suburbs and small towns. Though quite familiar with the section in town, I set out this time with my sight set on Cherry Creek State Park--just over 10 miles from downtown.

Cherry Creek State Park is a 880 acre reservoir that offers a quick escape without having to leave the city. This popular summer destination is perfect for swimming, fishing, boating, picnics, and camping.









On my way back from "The Reservoir," I stopped at the Cherry Creek Shopping District. Although I work at the Whole Foods in this neighborhood, I rarely visit the other shops located in the large outdoor mall. It is a generally affluent area, but I still enjoy admiring the chic boutiques and eateries. In addition, it serves as the venue for several events, including the annual art festival and sidewalk sale, as well as the summer farmers market.



Another day off was spent across town in LoDo. I travelled up the busy 16th Street Mall, stopping at Skyline Park and the well-known Tattered Cover Bookstore.

  

Towards the end of the mall lies picturesque Larimer Square.

Just beyond this plaza lies Confluence Park, where the Platte River meets the start of the Cherry Creek Trail.

Centennial Gardens can be found to the West of this trail merger...

...while Commons Park sits directly East. The city's homeless population has a noteable influence throughout these public areas.

The rest of the afternoon was spent at the pool in Anna and Alex's apartment complex. To be clear, I love my low-key lifestyle in Capitol Hill. However, I do enjoy the occasional visit to my sister's trendy neighborhood.

It is hard to believe that I have only been living in Denver for a little over three months. It seems like much longer, likely due to the vast amount of changes that have taken place. Looking forward, I am currently preparing my application to become an Air Force Pharmacy Officer. In the meantime, I will continue working at Whole Foods until I hear back from the competitive program (or any other job prospects). My flight to Pittsburgh over Christmas has been booked, and I am hopeful to make a few other small trips between now and then. Just because I relocated to a new city doesn't mean that I've lost sight of my passion for travel!

Rocky Mountain National Park

One special Friday, Anna and I took a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park--the third most visited National Park last year. The 415 square foot park lies only an hour and half northwest of Denver (just past Boulder).

Upon entrance to the park, the landscape noticeably transformed into a vast, lush terrain embodied in a quiet stillness--nature at its finest. We hit the trails early, completing a four-mile hike that passed by four lakes. Bear Lake was up first.







The cold morning--unusual for early July--was intensified by the high altitude. Intermittent light rains cast an eery mist and fresh fragrance throughout the surroundings. The foliage was also extra green and lush.

Next up was Nymph Lake.

Afterwards, Dream Lake...

...followed closely by Emerald Lake. The two-and-a-half hour trek was the perfect introduction to park, but we both agreed to take on a more challenging hike next time!

After our morning hike, we spent the afternoon driving along Trail Ridge Road--a scenic 48-mile drive that is famous for its spectacular views, wildlife sightings, and alpine wildflower exhibitions.

The winding road reaches a peak elevation of 12,183 ft--high enough to reach the clouds! 

With regards to wildlife, we spotted several elk (not to be mistaken for moose), a marmot, and a least chipmunk. Also home to the park are big horn sheep, black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions.









On the way home, we stopped in downtown Estes Park for a hot meal and tempting ice cream. After a day well-spent, we both agreed to make a return mountain visit soon.