With the heavy snow year in Colorado, very little of the high country is open to hiking.
Lost Creek Wilderness is fairly snow free, though, and it continues to entrance me.
The wide open spaces, those gorgeous and unique looking red rocks and the views that encompass not only the Continental Divide, but also the not-so-distant Pikes Peak.
I really can't phrase the description better than local guide book author Gerry Roach:
"You can hike hours through trees, then burst upon a private universe far above roads and cities. These summits let you taste freedom and touch the sky. They will draw you back."
This past Saturday, my friends Mark, "Tall Dave" and Tara decided to join me to summit Bison Peak.
At "only" 12400', it is peak most peak baggers ignore. If you want to see few people and explore a magnificent area, I suggest this peak.
The Bison Plateau is easily one of the most beautiful places in Colorado. It is not a place of jagged peaks and snowy ranges. It is a place that is an odd mix of the subtle and surreal. Every time I go there, I can't help but think of all the variety of places near my home.
The plateau did not disappoint. Though windy, it was sunny with clear views to be seen. The very distinctive landmark that I think of as the Bison Plateau Sentinel drew us forth. It stands on the plateau by itself. Stark red granite on the tundra.
After a bit of scrambling, we made it the top and soaked in the views before us. I normally don't care about summiting, but the views from the top of Bison are incredible.
After the mandatory summit photos, we head down the mountain and gratefully enjoyed a burger and beer in the nearby town of Bailey.
What a weekend. More great ones to come!
All the photos