Sometimes I'm reluctant to write about hikes that are so great I fear they'll become popular through my blog, and we won't be able to enjoy the near-monopoly we have when we're hiking there. Even during the peak months of summer, hikes out of the Frying Pan river valley into the Holy Cross wilderness area are never as crowded as those one finds near Aspen. Ours was the ninth vehicle at the trailhead on Sunday, and yet we only occasionally encountered other hikers (most on the way down from overnight camping there). Once at the lakes, we had them all to ourselves.
Unlike my past visits, the mosquitoes were out in force this time. The only bothered me when the breeze died down and we stood still for any length of time. My girlfriend, however, was nearly eaten alive. She had about thirty bites on her arms and shoulders, and was rather miserable. Despite that, she was able to appreciate the hike and called it the most beautiful she had ever seen.
 |
| Lyle Creek, just below Lyle Lake |
 |
| Lyle Lake lunch break |
 |
| Lyle Lake on the trail up to Mormon Lake |
 |
| pond and view above Mormon Lake |
 |
| Lyle Lake from the saddle |
