We wanted to go on a hike out of Pagosa Springs, and decided on Opal Lake. It's located a ways down a good dirt road.
The trail starts out going through a short wildflower field -
And then goes uphill through an Aspen forest. (Can you tell I like "butt shots?"
Along the way we saw some nice moss,
A swampy algae pond,
And some fungi on dead trees.
The trail went steeply uphill. This seemed like a better way to do it, but I'm getting more exercise....
We saw some beautiful red roots in a stream that runs down from the lake. And you can see the opal color in the water.
After 1 mile + uphill, we arrived at Opal Lake. The color really is opal-like.
I loved the little white water-flowers.
You can walk partway around the lake, where the lake looks more blue because of the reflection of the sky.
If this all sounds familiar to you, it's because
Jim and Gayle posted about it just the other day. Hope you enjoyed both!
Wow! Looks like a great hike. Especially like that last photo.
ReplyDeleteWe thought that was a lovely hike. It was nice to see it again through your eyes (and camera).
ReplyDeleteNice hike, for sure, but you could have used those butt shots for the "The End" competition! ;c)
ReplyDeleteAmazing how the water color is opal. Was it from plant life in the lake? Another one of America's great outdoor wonders.
Opal indeed. You folks find the nicest places to hike.
ReplyDeleteSweet hike to a great lake! Love the wildflower field and the horses and the DEER so sweet!!
ReplyDeleteThe opal color is caused by "rhyolite dust" carried into the lake.
ReplyDeleteWhat an adventure you've got just to be able to come up the opal lake. It sure is sweet to be able to see the lake. Its looks mystical.
ReplyDeleteCoral Springs Accountant
When I said "post more pics of my uncle", this isn't exactly what I meant! haha! I'm enjoying reading about and seeing pics of your adventures! Take care.
ReplyDeletewhen you're the camera holder, butt shots rule! :-) Always enjoy seeing beautiful places more than one time!
ReplyDeleteOh how lovely! What an amazing adventure. Just beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThe fungi reminds me of a particular eel that hangs out in the reefs of Cozumel. He has learned to stick his head out just so and waits for divers to throw food in his direction. He'll actually turn upside down if you're diving below him.... that's what the fungi looked like to me when I first saw it. Too funny.
Thanks for sharing your world with us.
It's going on the list.
ReplyDelete