the Crimson Trail

With the holiday weekend upon us, we decided to take a family hike on the moderately strenuous and historic Crimson Trail.

The streams were running high with snowmelt, and the hillsides were all bright green.

It was a warm, partly cloudy day with a nice breeze to make the steep climb not too hot.

Clover had no problem keeping up, and enjoyed being out on the trail.

We paused along the way so Tanner could show everyone his rock "slinging" technique.

Then Landon,

and Josh had a turn.

The trail climbs a couple of miles,

until it tops out along the rim of a geologic formation know as the China Wall.

The view from on top is breathtaking,

and a bit scary in places

just ask Keri!

From on top we could see across the canyon to the "Wind Caves",

formed by the forces of wind and water on the limestone rock.

We continued on the 4.3 mile trail loop as it descended back to the canyon floor,

and then followed the cool river back to our starting point,

where Tanner and Landon could not resist dipping their heads in the icy water!