Rocky Mtn Natl Pk 17Sep17-21Sep17

We just returned from a camping trip to Rocky Mtn Natl Pk, RMNP. Kala and I made an aggressive move to hike up Flattop Mtn on our first full day. This is a 5 mile and 3Kft vert hike one way but we were up for it. When we reached treeline about halfway though the wind we'd faced turned to bitter cold 30mph winds. We put on more clothes and pushed to the top with a few other hearty souls. Ultimately we stood above Glacier Gorge above the Tyndall Glacier with a spectacular view all the way back to Bear Lk and Estes Pk; it was worth the push. Along the way we tree peeped some color splashes of the aspen turning with the Autumnal Equinox nigh.

Our campsite in Moraine Pk CG was one of the best we've ever had. We were within walking distance of the Big Thompson River for fishing and Moraine Pk for elk viewing; plus we had a nice direct view of Long's Peak. All camper systems worked great but we had to dash out one morning for LP and ice and retie the awning when the high winds dislodged it one early morning. Of course we enjoyed Dave's 6 chilies fajitas while there. 

Fishing was fine for small browns like these using terrestrials, in a gorgeous spot. We didn't hike for lake fish this time though the bank gave way at one point and I went swimming in waders in 5 feet of water.

The elk were nearly ever-present. This time of year and this spot are the best for checking out the elk rut. We heard numerous bugling males challenging others and gathering their harems. We saw and heard a number of elk fights though I didn't catch one on camera. The big boy 12 pointer shown in a single pretty close side shot was the main story for several days. He roamed around a field of pretty ladies and cut out his favorites down to a manageable number - most often about a dozen. There were other decent males in the area but they rarely ventured close to the big guy. Here I show a poser male 10 pointer not even considering going to challenge. So cool.

Our good friends Tom & Leslie came to camp to visit and hike and enjoy our company ;). We had peach ice cream from Leslie's own hand and hiked out to Mills Lk from Glacier Gorge TH. Our route again showed off keen aspen color splashes. The destination is a cool spot (literally again this day with the cold wind continuing) beneath some mighty cirques and mountains, including Long's.

On Wednesday night we splurged and headed to Estes Pk for an full Italian meal at the Dunraven Inn - worth it. Now were back at home finally unpacked and cleaned.