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 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.