Quartz Lake Hike, July 4

"Climb the mountains to get their good tidings (Muir)" That's what we did for a Fourth of July Hike, trekking to Quartz Lake in the South San Juan Mountains. This is one of the nicest alpine hikes near Pagosa Springs, starting at 10,000 ft and climbing quickly to about 12,000. Still a bit of snow around up there, and wildflowers starting to bloom. Fantastic alpine views!