Pike's Peak to Lake Pueblo

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May 20th. This morning we take the 19 mile drive up to Pike's Peak, although the weather conditions probably won't allow us to reach the peak. The day is somewhat overcast but we still have great visibility. We stop to take a lot of photos. After many switchbacks on the steep slope, we are stopped at 16 miles up by icy road conditions so we head back down the mountain. We visit the Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings at the foot of Pike's Peak and enjoy walking through the ancient Anasazi structures. From there we head south to the Royal Gorge to cross the famous bridge high over the Royal Gorge canyon. As the sun moves toward the horizon we head for Lake Pueblo on the eastern border of Colorado where we hope to find a campsite.

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Photos

Driving up Pike's Peak
As we start the climb, the day is clear with clouds in the distance.

Near the top
As we approach the top through a series of switchbacks, the clouds close in to cover the peak.

Taking photos
Although it is cold and windy, we stop frequently to take photos.

Red fox
As we drive slowly down the mountain, we notice that a fox is following us and other cars, perhaps looking for a handout. He comes very close. You can see him approaching close to me in the previous photo.

View of Colorado Springs
As we continue down the mountain, we see Colorado Springs far below.

Manitou Springs cliff dwellings
At the bottom of the drive we stop at Manitou Springs where we visit the well-preserved cliff dwellings of the Anasazi basket-making culture. Interesting museum about their culture and crafts.

inside cliff dwellings
It was interesting to see the architecture and careful construction of the dwellings.

cliffside scenery
The desert plants and scenery added to the interest.

South to Royal Gorge
We then drove south into semi-arid country and canyon land to check out the famous bridge over the Royal Gorge.

View of bridge
The suspension bridge can be seen from a distance.

Walk on bridge
The suspension bridge sways as you walk across.

View from tram
Leigh rode the cable tram over the gorge. I stayed on the loading platform.

on tram
He did get some nice photos of the canyon walls and the river below.

view of gorge
It's hard to get the true perspective of just how far down it is to the bottom of the gorge.

Campsite at Lake Pueblo
Time to call it a day.

Comments

[diana luce]

great pics!
what a beautiful place, loved the pics, have fun! d