This past weekend, I had the opportunity to go camping in the San Isabel National Forest, near the base of Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, the two highest peaks in Colorado. It was a great trip, full of beautiful scenery, relaxation, and even a little bit of adventure.
Pike-San Isabel National Forest |
Our trip started out a little bit rocky (pun intended!), when I-70 was closed due to an overturned tractor-trailer. We ended up taking a detour that added a few miles to our trip, but at least we weren't stuck in traffic for hours!
Once we finally made it to our destination, we were greeted by the sight of a beautiful campsite near a babbling brook. We set up our tents, cooked some dinner, and enjoyed the fresh mountain air.
The next day, we went for a hike on the N. Half Moon Trail. The trail was a bit challenging, but the views from the top were definitely worth it. We could see for miles in all directions, and we even spotted a few marmots sunning themselves on the rocks.
After our hike, we relaxed by the campfire and enjoyed some good conversation. We also did a little bit of stargazing, and the sky was so clear that we could see the Milky Way with the naked eye.
On our last day, we packed up our camp and said goodbye to our new friends. We made our way back down the dusty road, stopping to take in the scenery one last time.
Overall, it was a great weekend trip. I loved the beautiful scenery, the fresh mountain air, and the chance to relax and unwind. I can't wait to go back and explore more of the San Isabel National Forest!
Tips for Planning Your Own Trip to the San Isabel National Forest:
- If you're planning on camping, be sure to make reservations in advance, especially during the peak season.
- The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be sure to pack layers of clothing.
- Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
- There are a variety of hiking trails to choose from, so be sure to pick one that is right for your skill level.
- Leave no trace! Pack out all of your trash and be respectful of the environment.
I hope you enjoyed reading about my camping trip in the San Isabel National Forest (Wikipedia). If you're looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to spend a weekend, I highly recommend it!
Additional Information:
- The San Isabel National Forest is located in central Colorado.
- Mount Elbert is the highest peak in Colorado, at 14,440 feet.
- Mount Massive is the second highest peak in Colorado, at 14,265 feet.
- The N. Half Moon Trail is a 7-mile moderate hike.