It is almost the end of May here in Phoenix; yet, it is snowing up north. The hot season usually arrives by now, but we are enjoying cool temperatures. I say, “Let it snow!” Awoof! Cloudy days like today give me a chance to reminisce about snow adventures of days gone by.
One such outing was fairly close to home when we lived in Loveland, Colorado. I know some of you will be 
exiting the area and exploring other states, so here’s some food for thought. Crozier Mountain is near Drake, about 30 minutes from where we lived (add 30 to 40 more minutes from Denver) and before you get to the turnoff for Estes Park (Glen Haven area).
Travel 8 miles past the Dam Store on U.S. Highway 34 up Big Thompson Canyon west of Loveland to Drake, and turn right on County Road 43, Glen Haven Road. Crosier Mountain can be approached from three trailheads on the south side of CR 43. The first is Garden Gate Trailhead located 2.2 miles from Drake. Rainbow trailhead is 5.5 miles from Drake, and the third is located behind the stables at the west end of the community of Glen Haven.
Note: If you haven’t been to the Dam Store, you might want to pop in. Just let someone know you are going because it is a bit creepy. My dad says they must have dead bodies buried down in the basement because it has a weird vibe. I didn’t smell any bones, and they have lots of tourist items and trinkets.
Once at Crozier Mountain, you have several trail options. We took the shorter one called Rainbow Trail. Don’t
let the distance fool you because it is steep! If you aren’t used to the altitude, you may want something a little on the mild side. Bring water and drink it. Hydration is a key at higher elevations. You will also want to check the weather. As you can see from my pictures, our hike was quite snowy! Even during the summer, this trail can get cold, especially when you are in the trees.
The pay off on this trail is the great views of Drake. This trail is perfect for those who stay in Estes Park, too. Consider this during your vacation. If you make the trip back on 34 East, stop at the Cherry Store. They have incredible yummies!
Hi! I am Kumaito (Kuma for short), a multi-tan Shiba Inu. My breed is one of the oldest and purest from Japan. I personally was born in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, moved to Friendswood, Texas, and now call Phoenix, Arizona home. I enjoy running or hiking almost every day with my mom, chasing rabbits out of my neighborhood, playing with toys, pestering my brother Edmond, eating, napping … well, I love just about everything and everyone!
My mom, Lorraine Bossé-Smith (Founder of the FIT Leader Formula™) is kind enough to help me share my Great Adventures, big and small. My mom is a motivational speaker, corporate trainer, business consultant, executive coach, behavioral-wellness expert, and author of eight published books. More importantly, she’s the best doggy mom ever!
Enjoy my blog at https://www.lorrainebosse-smith.com/category/kuma/ and be sure to follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kumathedog?ref=hl
Get outside! You never know what you’ll discover, and our paths just might cross. Happy tails!
