Opal Lake and Beyond, Oct. 8, 2013

DSC_4585

A trailhead aspen

DSC_4588

It's already looking like a good color day!

DSC_4591_fused

A dense stand of mature aspen

DSC_4593

Backlit foliage

DSC_4596

Spruce and aspen

DSC_4598

Jagged pinacles

DSC_4601

There's more than one way to cross White Creek

Opal Lake Autumn

Opal Lake, named for the pearly opalescence of its water.

DSC_4608

Across the lake, a few reddish aspen

Aspen Above Opal Lake

Aspen grove above Opal Lake; Colorado

DSC_4615

Close up of the cliffs high above the lake.

DSC_4617

Lunch beside the lake

DSC_4620

OK, now we are starting a bit of off-trail exploring

DSC_4627

Lots of aspen, near their peak color

DSC_4628

Crossing a small inlet to Opal Lake

DSC_4630

We are investigating a spring, with probably hundred of gallons of water per minute flowing out.

DSC_4632

The stream flowing from the spring

DSC_4643

Off trail through some great stands of aspen

DSC_4646

Pretty easy walking with not too much brush or deadfall.

DSC_4647

I have to include one vertical shot!

DSC_4657

The group emerging into a long meadow southwest of Opal Lake; here we will pick up the trail for our return.

DSC_4659

Group photo at our turn around point. A great hike and fine Indian Summer weather, what more couldyou ask?