Andrews Glacier Wander 7.7.18

Andrews Glacier Wander 7.7.18

First Wander Post Pneumonia

The goal for today’s wander is a loop hike to Andrew’s Glacier, a trek across the Continental Divide and down the Flat Top Mountain trail back to Bear Lake.  It is ambitious for a first hike after three months of minimal movement.  I feel strong and optimistic as the skies are clear, the sun is bright, and my legs have the need to move.

Back on Familiar Ground

The Park is busy with tourists and parking lots are all full hence I park in the shuttle lot and stand in the long cue for a bus.  I love the sights and sounds of families excited to explore our corner of the universe and experience the magic of RMNP.  Languages are varied, but a smile suffices for conversation.

I don my heavy pack and feel the familiar weight and fit on my back.  Gone are the implements of snow travel that were attached the last time I was here.  I begin my wander slowly, taking in the sights and sounds of summer along the Glacier Gorge trail.

Soon I find the cutoff trail that routes me around the tourists heading to the falls.  I quickly cover the last five switchbacks that lead me to The Loch Vale.  Strong legs and lungs encourage my progress and I believe I can achieve my goal for the day.

Tree Friend  

I take a moment to find my favorite dancing tree located on a rocky slope above the Loch Vale.  My illness and long recovery have kept me from this special place for too long.  A moment of tension as I scan the rocks to find it, unsure if it has remained anchored through the Spring storms.  My face erupts with a broad smile as I find the dancing tree.  It stands strong against a bright blue sky, anchored solidly to rock slabs.  Arms stretch to the sky, trunk playfully curved, as if caught in a dance.  I am home at last.

The lens is drawn to explore my old familiar friend.  The eye gently scans the trunk and limbs, looking for new holes, missing bark and changes in color.  Every season brings subtle changes, a new crease in the wood, some missing bark or perhaps a forest friend found a place of shelter within.

Wood and Flowers

I say goodbye to my friend and explore the landscape.  A single flower has pushed up from under a rock, old wood with interesting holes and tunnels offer interesting pieces of art.  Each hole and tunnel shaped into its own unique shape and depth by the forces of nature and the animals who seek safety and housing within.

A small snack and I am on my way.  Chatty tourists delight at the sight of the Loch Vale and surrounding mountains.  It is a picture- perfect day to be at the lake.

 

Andrews Creek

The trail splits and I climb the short path to valley of Andrews Creek – a beautiful valley that stretches a mile or more and offers access to the glacier and the rocky ridges and mountain that surround.  A lovely creek flows through the valley creating a lush, green undergrowth through the forest. 

Trails crisscross the valley, all leading to Andrews Glacier.  I slowly make my way up the valley, stopping to take pictures of flowers, mountains and big skies.  Here, I can breathe and let go of all thoughts and anxieties of the city.  The mountains surround and wrap me in the comfort that feels like home.

Andrews Tarn

The top of the valley forms a rocky cirque where Andrews Tarn sits.  Fatigue develops as I make my way up the waterfall that drains the tarn.  Each step taking more effort than the one before.  I arrive at the rocky shore of Andrew Tarn, water lapping the edges and deep blue color that hides what lies beneath. 

I take a short break to eat and drink and be in the moment.  My heart, full of joy, feels peaceful and a sense of calm.  A tired body

and a refreshed mind and soul, I decide to make this my destination for the day.  I look behind me, down the valley and see dark, roiling clouds moving up the valley and know I need to head for the cover of trees below.

Elk surprise

 

 

As I reach tree line, I am suddenly surrounded by mama elk and their young ones, still in spots.  They are grazing in the trees and lush undergrowth.  The babies talk to each other and to mama with an “eke”.  A gentle rain begins, spurning me to keep moving down.  I watch the elk and take a video to capture the lovely “eke” sound and continue down the trail.  A fabulous end to a fine wander! 

WanderJill