Rocky Mountain – Alpine

(Grand Lake CO)
A visit to Rocky Mountain National Park would not be complete with out venturing into the high peaks. I hadn’t planned to drive up the mountain to Alpine Visitor Center. However, there was a possibility I might see some Bighorn sheep, so up I went.

Rocky Mountain National Park – Never Summer Mountains from Farview

Ascending part way, I stopped at the Farview Curve overlook for photos of the Never Summer Mountains and the Kawuneeche Valley from above.

Trail Ridge Road
A steady climb on Trail Ridge Road found Poudre Lake, where it was difficult to find parking. Nearby sub-alpine Lake Irene had a full parking lot, so I didn’t get to see it. So much for fewer tourists!

Kawuneeche Valley from Farview

Poudre Lake along Trail Ridge Road

Medicine Bow Curve had no cars at the large turn-out, hallelujah! The Cache la Poudre River Valley and surrounding mountains could be seen in both directions. It was hard to see the river way down there.

Cache la Poudre River Valley

View from Medicine Bow Curve

Alpine Ridge
At Alpine, I hiked the short Alpine Ridge trail to a high point of 12,005 ft overlooking the surrounding peaks. The wind was blowing hard, and it was cold enough for my winter jacket and a sock cap.

View from atop Alpine Ridge

Looking west from Alpine Ridge

The rugged peaks in all directions were impressive. At a different time, more snow-caps would make it prettier. The Ute trail heading off into the peaks was tempting. But, I wasn’t feeling up to the challenge.

Looking east from Alpine Ridge

The drive up to the peaks, and back down to the valley, was much easier than anticipated. Of course, I didn’t get to see any Bighorn sheep. Still, I’m glad I decided to go up to the high country.

Camp: Rocky Mountain NP-Timber Creek CG
Scene: Mountains, valleys, lake

Also see: Rocky Mountain-Adams Falls and Rocky Mountain-Kawuneeche