by noworkski » Wed Sep 12, 2012 9:14 pm
So, the family hiked Parker Lake today. We get out of the car, take three steps past the trail marker and my daughter gets stung by a bee. First sting, and we were not sure if she was allergic. So, we head back to the car, and after rendering treatment, she says "let's mountain climb." We forge foward.
Honestly, the first 1/2 ora bit more was tough for my daughter. There was alot of carrying her involved, and up hill. It was slow going the first half. Not sure I would recommend for child under six, but maybe my daughter is soft?
After about the 1/2 point, things level off and are much more enjoyable. The trees (pines, aspens, etc.) were a welcome relief from the sun, and the creek was fun for the daughter to explore. The trees colors are starting to change, no doubt about that. We saw some yellows up close, and yellows and reds off in the distance at higher elevation.
Parker Lake and the surrounding scenery were awesome. Clear lake, rolling hills, jagged steeps, and there was still some snow patches in the shadows at much higher elevation. There was a waterfall still flowing just below a snow patch at much higher elevation. Name of fall currently unknown. Would love to hike up there someday, but will have to wait until the daughter is older, or on a guys trip.
All in all, after the 1/2 way point, Parker Lake is worth the hike.
PS- Daugther fine. Not allergic to bee stings. Although, her "legs are heavy."
I don't care if you lie to me, as long as it feels good.