West Elk Ride - September 23, 24 & 25

Horse Park Camp - Kebler Pass

A spectacular weekend with the splendor of Fall colors that are still vivid in my mind.  Trail Boss & Camp Hosts, Connie & Dale Pace, ride the mountains of Colorado full time.  They arrived in camp on Wednesday in blustery, rainy weather.  There were already some riders in camp, soon followed by others.  By Friday evening there were 18 riders in camp.  

The colors were gorgeous from every direction.  Camp was at the base of the Ragged Range.

The weather was typical September in the high Rockies -- one must dress in layers and don't leave the rain coat in the trailer.  However, only once did the rain coat have to be used. 

The trails vary from rugged to moderate.  On Friday, eight riders rode north out of camp to the summit of Oh Be Joyful.  From there one could see to the north the back side of the Maroon Bells (yes, the Maroon Bells at Snow Mass).  Crested Butte ski area could be seen to the north east.  The last mile to the top was very difficult.  There is a reason it is call "Oh Be Joyful"

On Saturday 16 riders headed out on Cliff Creek Trail, over Swampy Pass to a view of the Castles.  By Sunday the trails were glistening with fallen gold aspen leaves.  The mud from the rains four days earlier was gone and there was not a cloud in the sky.  A beautiful Colorado day in the mountains.

On Sunday, seven riders rode out on Dark Canyon Trail to Dark Canyon -- accessing it down Devil's Stairway.   The steep canyon granite walls framed in Fall colors shall never be forgotten -- nor shall this ride!  Thank you Dale & Connie! 

See You On The Trail!
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