Redcloud Peak | Silver Creek Trail

Описание: Grateful for the opportunity to hike to the top of Red Cloud peak in Colorado (elevation 14,041’). The road to the trailhead was perhaps the worst one I have ever been on – we bottomed out at least 3 times in a high clearance jeep (fortunately it was rental). Aside from the horrible road, it was incredible to actively watch the mountains around us thawing as we drove along them - we saw several waterfalls and streams from the snow melt and passed through walls of snow at least 10ft high (in some cases took out part of the wall with us as we drove past to make room along the narrow, winding road). On the trail, the hike through the tree line was short-lived (which I prefer) and once above it the views really got dramatic. Had to pass multiple snow fields (some crossings were over snow bridges with fast rushing snow melt underneath – fortunately it held our weight). There were multiple false summits which is always very encouraging (not really). The views at the top were incredible with snow capped peaks in every direction. The Red Cloud description was certainly consistent/appropriate – very dramatic red dirt/rock at summit. The way down was treacherous but occasionally fun – sliding down the snow fields was much preferred over post-holing on the way up. When I got back home, the first thing my 6 year old daughter did was touch my arm and see if I was cold – I guess she was worried I got cold on the mountain.