Estes Park Getaway, Part III

Days 5 and 6 - June 7-8
Finale of the trip

The last full day in Estes was the nicest weather-wise, and we enjoyed it to the fullest. We set out on a hiking adventure about mid morning for Lily's Mountain which was located just down the highway from Mary's Lake Lodge, where my parents and brother were staying. The mountain is located on the western edge of RMNP. The hike was categorized as an "easy" hike - only two miles one way and a 1009 foot elevation gain. Not so easy for half of our crew, especially the little ones. The hike was one of just a few "easy" hikes that ended at the summit of the mountain. The thinner air and steeper elevation of the last third of the trek deterred some of us. Thanks to my in-laws and mom for staying back with our little ones while we made it to the top!! The view and experience of making it to the summit of Lily's Mountain at 9,734 feet (according to my GPS altimeter on my Android) was absolutely breathtaking (perhaps partly due to the steep last half mile) and quite amazing.

And the hiking adventure begins!

Mom, Mom-in-law, Dad-in-law, Dad

My dear in-laws

Papa with E...and baby doll in tow, of course

My three girls resting about halfway up Lily's Mtn with their souvenir rocks in hand

My dear parents hiking during their first (of several) Estes Park vacations!! :)

Top of Lily's Mtn looking towards Estes Park

Chris...too close for comfort

An uneasy feeling, yes, I had it

Love this picture...even if it is less than modest...

Feeling like we're on top of the world, only to realize Long's Peak behind us is another 4,500 feet above us!

The Survivors of the Lily Mountain hike!!!
9,734 feet

Big A near the summit of Lily's Mtn
She's my Colorado mountain lover!!

Chris as we came off the mountain summit

My dad and Big A hiking back down Lily's

Sleepy E on the hike back down Lily's Mtn

Our last evening was spent with my parents at Mary's Lake Lodge which was about four miles or so from our cabin. The heated outdoor saltwater pool there was enjoyed by all, even E! It was the first time she got into a pool without crying since our pools in Nebraska are generally unheated and cold, which she doesn't appreciate much at all. Quite odd that even though the outdoor temperature was 70 degrees, we were still fairly comfortable in and out of the pool.

Papa and E

Sunbathing E

The saltwater pool at Mary's Lake Lodge with an incredible view!

The really hot hot tub

This guy was hanging out on the Streamside Cabin property maybe a car length's distance from our van as we headed into town on our last evening...wow!

Twin Owls shot on the way out of town

Hiking goal for next RMNP experience is Ouzel Falls from the Wild Basin trailhead :)

I WANT TO GO BACK!!!