We found the snow!

A couple of weeks ago, we decided to head to the Boston Mine trailhead to see if we could bag any peaks. Needless to say, since it has been so dry in Denver, we underestimated the amount of snow above 12000 ft. There wasn't a lot by any means, but when snow has obscured the spaces between large rocks, and created some very slick conditions, more gear is needed. Normally, we would go a bit more prepared with micro spikes and poles, at least. But it has been so warm in Colorado this fall...so we missed out on the larger peak, but we had a great hike on and off trail in some beautiful late fall weather conditions. 

The trail started off through thick willows, it was not very well defined and headed upward quite heftily. It was in the balmy low 20s when we started. 

Pretty soon, what few trees in this area thinned out and we headed up into a valley, following a very faint trail. Ahead, Tom and Dallas saw an albino pika!!  Unfortunately, I did not. Bummer. Clouds obscured all the higher peaks, as you can see. That cloud ahead is hiding a centennial peak. 

We decided on a lower peak after realizing that without some sort of traction on our hiking boots, getting up the large field of talus to the the taller peaks would be agonizingly slow. So, we started up and off trail, heading for a lower summit. 

One of the boys crossing the ridge to the summit. 

One of my favorite pictures below, Tom taking in the incredible view. 

It was really beautiful up there and we were the only people around. The ridge to the left below is what we considered tackling, but as I said, we were a bit unprepared this time. 

We headed back down with cold faces and fingers and decided to check out the old mine buildings. 

Through the cabin window, the sun popped out for a few minutes on Jacque Peak, across the way. 

All in all, a nice late season hike above tree line, it was nice to be snowed on, since it's November!  Pretty soon, full on winter gear will be required when exploring in the mountains. Not to mention, it's almost time to dust off the skis!  Wahoo!!