Two of Colorado's most notable Mountains

Fortnight of 1/4-1/18

Maroon Bells:

Attractive but Dangerous

       

      One of Colorado's most breathtaking sights are the twin peaks known as the Maroon Bells. These two mountains, stretching fourteen thousand feet above sea level are located just outside of Aspen, Colorado, and are the most photographed location in Colorado. But, as thousands of unsuspecting tourists flock these mountains each year, unbeknownst of the danger that lies within its climb.

     The Maroon bells are formed with layers of mudstone, which gives the mountains their characteristic maroon color. At the right time of day, photographers and viewers alike can find the mountains reflecting in the nearby Maroon Lake, creating a postcard picture opportunity. Visitors are also exposed to a variety of wildflowers, as well as the famous Aspen tree that is native to North America.  The Maroon Bells are also located in Colorado's White river national forest, which provides ample opportunities for camping, picnicking, and hiking nearby.

     But, hikers looking to summit these peaks are in for a tough climb. While the trails are not technically difficult, many challenges are presented due to the composition of the rock. The rocks that make up the maroon bells are sedimentary, which means they are not as strong and are prone to eroding or breaking easily. These rocks also are what give the mountains their distinctive color. So, the U.S Forest Service warns climbers through a sign at the front of the park that the mountain is prone to "kill without warning," due to the fact that it contains, "loose, rotten, and unstable rocks." In 1965, eight people died on Maroon Bells during the climbing season. Since then, these mountains have earned the nickname, "Deadly Bells." So, if you are ever visiting the Maroon Bells in Colorado, remember that the beauty of this red rock comes with sacrifice.

Image source: https://www.stayaspensnowmass.com/sites/default/files/styles/flexslider_full/public/images/gallery/bell3.jpg?itok=fMj-wXlD

   

Pikes Peak

America's Mountain

     Pikes Peak, another mountain in Colorado that pushes above the clouds at over fourteen thousand feet, has earned the nickname, "America's Mountain," due to its fame as a tourist destination. Pikes Peak is an extremely famous mountain due to its location and ease of access. Pikes Peak is just outside of Colorado Springs, about a forty-five minute drive from Denver. There are also multiple ways that one can reach the summit of Pikes Peak. Visitors have the option to take shuttles to the summit, or drive along the scenic Pikes Peak highway. They can also, if they are brave and well prepared, climb to the summit of the mountain.

     The Pikes Peak highway makes it extremely easy to reach the summit. There is paved road covering the entire 39 mile round trip ascent and descent, providing opportunities for anyone with a car to view the scenery at the summit. There are about 162 turns, and drivers are encouraged to stay in low gear throughout the drive. Throughout this drive, viewers pass through the foothills of the mountain, past the treeline, and then eventually into the alpine zone. Here they can view some of the most famous creatures that reside in these tough, high altitude conditions, including the famous yellow-bellied marmot. 

Image source:https://d3qvqlc701gzhm.cloudfront.net/thumbs/abfd90a0e552cd69f82405eff21215afbe2efcc648fbb8b4597ffcb1e75b2a9b-375.jpg

    The Pikes Peak Highway is not only an attraction for tourists. The tough drive has drawn many professional race car drivers and daredevils to attempt to summit the mountain as fast as they can. A drive that normally takes an hour for a normal tourist was done in under ten minutes by a Japanese driver in 2010. In 2013, Sebastian Loeb, a professional rally driver set the record for the Pikes Peak hill climb, reaching the summit in under nine minutes. If you ever happen to be in the Denver area, think about taking the day trip to experience the thin air at the summit of pikes peak.