What a surprise–American White Pelicans! Walking to a favorite local lake to see the waterfowl passing along our bird migration flyway. This was an unexpected delight. One of the largest birds in North America, it has a wing span of 9 to 10 feet, only outdone by the California Condor, endangered but making a comeback.
Sandhill Cranes (Antigone canadensis) are large, loud, and one of our most majestic birds. With a wingspan of almost seven feet, seeing flocks of thousands heading north each spring is a sight to behold! Come along as we visit Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge in south-central Colorado to watch the birds flock, feed, and dance, all in preparation for their long journey north.
We have walked in Red Rock Canyon Open Space before, but today we are exploring a short .2 mile connector trail called Quarry Pass Trail. We are heading down Red Rock Canyon Trail for the last mile of our 4-mile morning hike. Although overcast, it is not smoky today. The huge wildfires north near Rocky Mountain National Park (oh no!) have been inundating us with smoke when winds head south. We have a nice respite today, so let’s explore the connector trail I’ve never done before. We’ll have a new adventure together!
Off We Go!
Mueller State Park is about 28 miles into the mountains from Colorado Springs. Covering 5,121 acres with ponds, rock outcropping, mountain views in every direction, and amazing aspen groves, a walk this time of year will be spectacular! Grab your water and get ready because we start our hike at about 9,650 feet and it will be a down and up huffer puffer as we drop 500 feet to Preacher’s Hollow and Never-Never Pond. We’ll take it slow because the thin air at this elevation will take its toll on us both!
