Devil's head

We took 24 kids up Devil's Head today, and I have to say, I was impressed. Even with the whining, all of the kids made it up the mountain to the picnic area unscathed but hungry. There are 4 students that stayed with me as I clipped pretty quickly up the trail (with a cold) having to wait for the others at points. I was in much better shape even after a week and a half break from hiking. I can only think I am getting to where I need to be to start hiking the 14ers.

I kept thinking back to a year prior when "The Fetching Mrs. C" and I made this our first official hike. Oye, it kicked our butts. We had our 2 kids with us as we set out to try this "moserate" hike. A word if I may, never trust a trail marking, it is always someone's opinion. One man's easy is another's hard. 

 An employee and I made the final harrowing 144 step journey up to the top of the rock face. 

WOW! What a beautiful lookout.

We got to meet Bill Ellis. Bill has been the fire watch at Devil's Head for 24 summers. He is one of the nicest persons I have met. He was informative and shared his vast knowledge of his job with us. I can't imagine the conversations I would have with God while doing that job. It is a truly remarkable land mark. A beautiful spot atop Colorado but at times a sad job.

I would imagine Bill was on duty while the Hayman Fire was going and I can only think his heart was breaking. There is easily thousands of acres scarred by this fire that he has to look at it daily and the constant reminder must bother him. Maybe not, it would me. Bill was a very nice man to speak with and I am thankful to have met him.

We live in a beautiful state and I am thankful for that.

If you get a wild hair and you are in the area, drive up to Devil's head, take the hike. you won't regret it. And while you are at it, tell Bill hello from an admirer.