Without delay, I began the steep climb to the Royal Arch.
Though not particularly difficult in terms of milage, the hike consists mostly of steps and switchbacks with a total elevation gain of 1,417 ft.
Nevertheless, I made it to the arch at the summit in about an hour to top.
There I was joined by a handful of fellow hikers taking in the vast views of Boulder, Red Rocks, the plains, and even the small Denver skyline far in the distance. It was a cool and cloudy day, was was perfect for hiking, as well as a nice change from the heat of summer.
After refueling, I headed back the way that I came--slightly easier than the way up, but still a challenge in itself. I passed many groups trekking up, which reassured me of my decision to get an early start. Near the bottom, I followed the Bluebird-Baird Trail back to the parking lot.
The hike totaled somewhere between 3-4 miles--a doable but challenging morning work out.
I passed the local Whole Foods shortly after leaving the park, and couldn't help but stop. The Boulder location is the busiest store in Colorado. My store is the second busiest. Earlier this week was the annual supplier fair, where employees were invited to learn about the various products that we sell from local vendors. It was a complete zoo, but also a fun experience to talk to the vendors at each table. I walked out of there stuffed with breads, cheeses, salsas, and sweets, and carried away bags of samples for later.
Before returning to Denver, I stopped for lunch at the Southern Sun Pub and Brewery, which is a branch of the Mountain Sun Pubs and Breweries. Vegetarian chili and a raspberry wheat beer sure hit the spot!
After an afternoon siesta, I went salsa dancing downtown that night with a few friends from work. I do enjoy my days off!
