This morning we did an awesome hike up Chief Mountain.  Drove in on Squaw Pass Road – about 12 miles off of Rt 74.  The trailhead is hard to find.  It is on the left.  Look for cars on the right.  It is just above one of the Echo Mountain ski lifts.

The hike is steep, but not long.  About 1-1/2 miles with an elevation gain of 1,100 feet.  Tundra-like conditions above the treeline and very rocky at the top.

The views are unbelievable!  You have a 360 degree view of the front range.  You can see Longs Peak to the north, Mt. Evans to the west, Pikes Peak to the South and loads of beautiful Rocky Mountains in between.

Lots of lady bugs at the top.  They must like all the rocks and the elevation.

Here is a photo of me and my lovely wife Diane – one day before I celebrate the big Five Oh!