July 5, 2010

14,130 feet above sea level is low for a transatlantic flight. 14,130 feet above sea level is high for a balloon. 14,130 feet above sea level is where we were standing on Mt. Evans. The wind chill at the top brought the temperature down to around the 36 degree mark but the view was magnificent and worth the cool weather. The drive up this mountain was exciting and scary at times. It was difficult for Jill and me to look out the car window at the valley far, far, far below. I am glad I wasn’t driving.

Yes, we are hanging on to the signpost.

As we neared the top, the road switched back and forth making the ride even more exciting

Looking at the top of Mt Evans from the parking area.

Karl and Abby stopped to wave at us as they neared the 14,264-foot top.

This beautiful animal seemed to want everyone to take his picture.

We were fortunate to see these little ones.

We stopped at Echo Lake on the way to the top for a picnic lunch.

Our lunchtime view was terrific.

Our tour guides, Jill, Abby and Karl.

Grandma, Abby and Grandpa

These backpackers passed on our way to lunch. Doesn’t that look like fun?