The weekend of July 4th, saw my good friend Nahum back in town for the month of July.
Nahum is one of my closer friends. Someone who’ve I known for a few years. We’ve established a strong friendship through many times shared in the outdoors, discussions about military history (esp. World War II!) and a share interest in skepticism towards many New Age beliefs. And being a friend with an astronomer is VERY handy on night hikes. 🙂 I was also honored to take part in Patricia and Nahum’s wedding last year.
As part of being back in town, Nahum wanted to do a couple of “social backpacks”. More like camping trips than a traditional backpack. The trip featured a short hike in to base camp, plenty of wine to share, a campfire, great hikes with awesome scenery and even better company. A wonderful way to spend the weekend and to catch up with friends.
We started the hike at the Fall Creek Trailhead. This area is a launching point for Mount of the Holy Cross. Like all 14ers, the trailhead can be crowded. Luckily, our hike took us away from this popular trail and lead to quieter areas.
After making camp and taking a walk around the lake, dinner was prepared. We enjoy the simple meals in the wonderful setting.
There were no fireworks that night, but we did have something better: a campfire!
There is something elemental about sitting around the campfire – the conversation (and wine) flows, the setting is relaxing and hours can go by quickly and effortlessly.
The following day we hiked up to lower and upper Tuhare Lakes. The lakes were enclosed in a cirque with enticing views. The snow covered peaks formed the perfect backdrop. A nap was the perfect accompaniment for the afternoon.
While at the pass, we saw a very friendly marmot who scampered very close to us. We could almost reach out and pet it!
The weather eventually started to move in. Luckily we made it below treeline well before the thunder, lightening and hail started. We made it back to the vehicles, enjoyed a steak dinner in a nearby town and had another memorable weekend in the back country.
All the photos
Thanks for the posting of the pictures and comments. My brothers and brothers in law took this trail many consecutive years, the third week of July. We would stay 4 days and nights and camp about midway from Constatine and Lower Tuhare, which is right at timberline, so we could have campfires. The fishing was always excellent at the Tuhare lakes, and we only kept what could eat that day. We woke up one morning to about 6 inches of snow on our tents and campsite, which quickly melted. This is my favorite place on earth. Thank you for sharing.
It is a beautiful place indeed. I really need to get back!