Brews and Super Moons

This year, the full moons of October, November, and December take place when the moon is at its closest point of approach in its orbit around Earth--a "supermoon." Most recently, the full moon phase peaked early on November 14th, appearing larger and brighter than any other moon since 1948. The full moon won't come this close to Earth again until 2034.

When my neighbor, Dana, brought this phenomenon to my attention, we made a plan to head to the mountains to watch the moon rise. On another unseasonably warm and sunny afternoon, we set off for Bear Peak, just a few minutes away from downtown Boulder.

From the Bear Canyon trailhead, Dana and I began the challenging hike across the Mesa Trail and through Fern Canyon. I typically prefer an early start and end to hiking trips, but I enjoyed the opportunity to switch it up and, thus, gain a new perspective. Especially after day light savings took effect, it felt much later in the day than it truly was.

After a long series of steep stairs and switchbacks, we reached a rest-worthy saddle a half-mile from the peak. Here we took in sweeping views of the city and Colorado University (identified by the red-roof buildings).






















The final uphill stretch rolls over red-stained sedimentary rock to a big stone, requiring a brief scramble to the summit.

At 8,641', the pointed, wind-swept summit offers 20-mile+ views of Denver and the Eastern Plains to one side. On the opposite (and slightly more impressive) side, however, sits the nearby Indian Peaks, Front Range, and Continental Divide.

Dana and I took our time to bask in the mountain scenery that glowed in the rays of the setting sun. I realized then that this trail would be remembered as one of my favorites; such as gem that is just a stone's throw away from town.

Around 4:30pm, we started the descent, hoping that our timing was right for our lunar mission.

Despite a slight haze, we found a great spot to observe the anticipated supermoon. It did indeed appear brighter than usual. Mother Nature at her finest!

Afterwards, Dana and I shared a victory beer at Fate Brewery. Although a repeat for me, I recently came to the conclusion that I would maximize my remaining time in Colorado by visiting as many state breweries as possible. Here's what I've got so far:

1. Alpine Dog Brewery Co.
2. Aspen Brewing Co.
3. Blue Moon Brewing Co.
4. Breckenridge Brewery 
5. Bristol Brewing Co.
6. C.B. & Pott’s Restaurant and Brewery
7. Coors Brewing Co.
8. Denver Beer Co.
9. Epic Brewing Co. 
10. Fate Brewing Co.
11. Great Divide Brewing Co.
12. Prost
13. Ratio Beerworks 
14. Station 26 Brewing Co.
15. Southern Sun Pub & Brewery 
16. Twisted Pine Brewing Co.

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Eldorado Canyon State Park

Following my initial training period at work, I finally transitioned to a part-time schedule. I was relieved to have a day or two off during the week vs. my previous Monday-Friday routine. During this adjustment period, I hadn't made it out of the city once--the last time being Aspen. Needless to say, I was itching to get back to the mountains.

My first trip: Eldorado Canyon State Park. 30 miles Northwest of Denver, it's a quick escape to Boulder's backyard.

The Rattlesnake Gulch Trail, a 3.6 moderately difficult hike, sports beautiful views of the canyon and leads to the ruins of an old hotel that burned down in 1913.

The snowy Continental Divide sits off in the opposite direction.

I was lucky to see a train passing on tracks 1,200' above the trailhead.






















An easy 1-mile hike on the Fowler Trail provides an opportunity to watch brave rock climbers traverse the dramatic walls of the canyon. It was then that I decided that my next hobby would be climbing!