May rains mean amazing June flowers

.....and deep lakes.

Our hike to Thomas Lakes was fantastic because of the wealth of wildflowers on the trail.  Then we reached the eastern lake and found it holding more water than I had ever seen.  Just a couple of years ago, it was about five feet lower.

This was the first time I remember seeing all-white columbines.

Thomas Lakes on the slopes of Mt. Sopris

west Thomas Lake

east Thomas Lake

For the distance (eight miles r/t), views, degree of difficulty (~500 ft/mile), and proximity to Carbondale, I'm always surprised this trail isn't more crowded.  Don't get me wrong, it's a very popular hike, and one that usually has a couple of dozen other hikers on it.  But that's not very many.  And that's coming from someone who prefers not to find any other hikers on his trails.

The trail is snow-free now, though we did find some snow in the shady places around the lakes.  We encountered quite a few people who were camping overnight, including two parties we knew.  But with a dozen established campsites, there were still some open ones.

Despite the near-average snowpack this year, the east lake was a good four or five feet below normal.  Just like last year.  Not sure what's going on there.  Also the stream crossings were very easy for any time of the year, but especially this early in the season.

My girlfriend tripped on the way down and hurt her knee, so I don't know if we'll be able to hike next weekend.  I hope so, even it's an easy one.

Thomas Lakes and Mt. Sopris

Halfway to the summit of Mt. Sopris, south of Carbondale, Colorado, are Thomas Lakes.  Two large lakes and several smaller ponds sit on a shelf on the north slope of the mountain.  Other than the one time I made an unsuccessful attempt at climbing to the summit, I usually hike to and around Thomas Lakes every year. 

The trailhead can be reached from Prince Creek Road or West Sopris Creek Road.  The trail is about four miles each way, with a vertical gain of 1,600 feet.

Carbondale, Colorado

Enjoying the view from Mushroom Rock

Named by national magazines as a great sports town, Carbondale, Colorado is a fantastic little town nestled in the Rocky Mountains.  It's a half hour from Aspen, and within a short drive to several wilderness areas (Snowmass-Maroon Bells, Raggeds, Holy Cross, Flattops, Hunter-Frying Pan).  Many miles of bike paths; rivers that are great for fishing, kayaking, and rafting; plenty of horseback riding opportunities; nearby trails for hiking and mountain biking; and great restaurants, art galleries, and entertainment venues all make Carbondale a favorite for locals and visitors.

Carbondale is about a dozen miles south of I-70 on Highway 82.  Use the east exit in Glenwood Springs.  It's also about a half hour from Aspen, if you're inclined to visit there.

Thomas Lakes and Mt. Sopris

It may be the heart of winter (the first two mornings of the year saw fifteen degrees below zero for the low temperatures), but that doesn't mean we can't think of summer.  While I don't get far from home in the winter, the lengthening days has me thinking about what trips to take this coming year.

One hike we do at least once every summer is Thomas Lakes, on the northern slopes of Mt. Sopris.  From the trailhead near Dinkle Lake, it's about four miles to Thomas Lakes.  There are two big ones, and several smaller ponds - all worth exploring.  There are also over a dozen approved campsites, as this area is popular with those seeking to climb Mt. Sopris in a two-day adventure.

The above shot is taking from the northern shore of the eastern lake.  As it clouded over quickly on our first visit, we returned a few weeks later, and there wasn't a cloud in the sky.

Mt. Sopris is several miles south of Carbondale, Colorado.  To reach the trailhead, turn east on Prince Creek Road, and head uphill until you see a well-defined turn-off to your right (south).  Proceed to the large lot above Dinkle Lake.  There are often plenty of cars there.