Gold Mountain - Vickers Upper Ranch Steak Cook-out

We were lucky to be here for the last steak cook-out of the year on top of Gold Mountain. The folks at Vickers Ranch have a weekly cook-out in-season on their upper ranch. The 4-wheel drive up to the picnic area is worth the trip in itself. We have to say that this is the most incredible setting we have ever enjoyed a steak in.

Cinnamon Pass - American Basin

Took a jeep ride by Lake San Cristobal, up through Cinnamon Pass to American Basin. This 30-mile round trip took three hours - what has always been a 4-wheel drive road should be designated jeep-only this year(and luckily we were in one). According to the locals, they have never seen it this rough - we're ready for the rodeo now after that drive. But it was well worth the trip. American Basin is not covered with the wildflowers that are normal in spring and early summer, but is still spectacular and the road up is incredible, made even more so with the peak aspen colors.

The ladies in the rumble seat

Fishing Lake Fork of the Gunnison River

Greg and I went to the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River for three hours of fishing in the afternoon - a great three hours! Greg, being the perfect host, pointed me to the "honeyhole", a perfect run in between two sets of riffles that yielded all these fish in the 14"-16" range. I was so excited, I failed to take pictures of this beautiful, clear stream that courses through a shallow canyon with monstrous spruce trees.

To Lake City to visit our friends the Grahams

We were excited that our friends Greg and Diane had invited us back to stay a few days at their wonderful house in Lake City. They are so hospitable and enjoyable to spend time with. And this year we were here for the perfect time to view the aspens. These two pictures were taken from their front deck - what a deal!

Taylor Reservoir: Cottonwood Pass

Had an opportunity to drive up through Cottonwood Pass, along the Taylor River up to the Reservoir and Dam. One of our favorite areas from our trip last year and this year was enhanced by the aspens turning. My only regret was not having time to fish below the dam for the legendary huge rainbow trout.

Gunnison: Black Fork of the Gunnison River

After Salida, we drove over Monarch Pass to Gunnison to spend two nights. We enjoy this small town - immediately upon arriving we drove straight to the little place that sells huckleberry smoothies - we each downed the largest ones they have. Also enjoyed breakfasts at "The W", an institution around these parts.
Later, we drove to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison River, a spectacular fishing destination. Hooked some nice ones - unfortunately, I forgot my camera and Charlcie had wandered upstream to take other pictures.

Last Day in Fairplay - On to Salida

Leaving Fairplay today to spend a night in Salida. Had to take time to say good-bye to our friend that we call Snow Ball - she always shows up and hangs around at meal time and is a real sweet dog, but is reluctant to receive a pet on the head, so we have to work up to it.
Had a good day in Salida, visiting the galleries, flyshop, and enjoying lunch at the Boat House on the Arkansas River.
Actually got to fish for a couple of hours on the Arkansas with some success - regret I didn't have more time as it was good fishing in a very nice stretch of water in a red canyon south of Salida.

Fishing Fourmile Creek

Each year I reserve and fish Fourmile Creek - a small meandering meadow stream that holds some surprisingly large fish. Caught several nice fish, but missed on the larger ones. Was constantly keeping an eye on the coyote that showed up on the scene as soon as I got there. Shouting at him only raised his curiosity and he not only did not run away but kept coming closer. I threw a rock in his direction to try to scare him - he pounced on the rock! Eventually he ranged farther, apparently hunting for more prey.  If you click/enlarge the center photo, you can see him.

South Platte River: Dream Stream

I hadn't fished the Dream Stream section of the South Platte in a few years. This designated Gold Medal trout water holds many large trout and this time of year the large brown trout start moving up from Elevenmile Reservoir towards Spinney Reservoir on their pre-spawn runs. Well, I didn't spot any large ones, but I caught a couple of dozen small rainbows - not really a dream. Nonetheless, it was a great day - beginning with our first sighting of a moose since we have been coming here. The bull was casually strolling across Warm Springs ranch - we first spotted him in the middle of the road that leads to the highway - pretty darned exciting.

Elevenmile Canyon: South Platte River

Can't come to Fairplay without a day at Elevenmile Canyon. Another one of those beautiful settings with the river running at the base of the canyon. Even for those that don't fish, this is an incredible place - of course, the fishing is a desirable bonus.