We kicked off our third annual trip to the Southwest in Estes Park, Colorado. (We probably should have kicked it off by spending a night in Denver, as recommended, to adjust to the altitude, but hindsight is 20/20…) Aside from the mild altitude sickness I experienced, I really liked Estes Park. The cute little town, full of cute giant elk, is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
This year, the Rockies received an unseasonal three feet of snow in late May. Most of it had melted by the time we arrived, but we decided to hike around in one of the spots where it was still thawing, because apparently, it’s my secret desire to fall down in all 50 states. After slipping and sliding along on the trail, I was relieved to make it to Nymph Lake in one piece.
After leaving Nymph Lake, we continued along the trail to Dream Lake. Every so often, we stopped to rest and admire the incredible views, and pose for photos.
Dream Lake welcomed us with all the glory of an alpine paradise. At 9,905 feet above sea level, you lose your breath from the altitude and the beauty of it all. We were light-headed and giddy, but in the most wonderful way in the most spectacular place.
tresamusantephoto.com 