I was trying to decide where to go this year for my annual quest for Colorado wildflowers, and after hearing from a couple sources that the conditions near Crested Butte were epic and in full swing, I headed out for the Elk Mountains. My original plan was to backpack to West Maroon Pass, but soon discovered that the road to the trailhead was buried under 30 feet of snow. Just as well, since there were plenty of hiking and photo ops in and around Crested Butte. A truly epic trip!
Overlooking the valley from Brush Creek Road.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
From Brush Creek Road.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
Nearing sunset
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
A mix of colors
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
Sage and flowers as sunset approaches, from Brush Creek Road
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
Sunset at Brush Creek Road
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
Overlook from Gothic Road, pre-sunrise
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
Gothic Mountain at sunrise
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
Lupines and sunflowers at sunrise.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
Scarlet Gilia and Gothic Mountain.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
Beautiful sunrise from Gothic, Colorado
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.
A perfect reflection in a pond off Gothic Road.
Photo © copyright by Stan Rose.