Well my friends we are nearly half way through another week here in the U.S. And fall is lingering just around the corner. In fact, there have been a few early mornings and late evenings recently that felt like fall had arrived here on the Western Slope of Colorado.

After the incredibly busy summer we’ve had (with work) and the approach of cooling temperatures we have spent nearly every extra minute exploring the beauty outside our front door. So I am a little behind on sharing the adventures I’ve been on the last couple of weeks. Emerald Lake is one of my very favorite alpine lakes in our area. Though they all are of immeasurable magnificence, Emerald has a special effect on me. The energy is undeniable and if you have read the Celestine Prophecy you would understand it is one of those places that has a certain charge and gladly lends visitors some of it.

Emerald Lake has a rich color true to its name. Surrounded by fragrant pines, rocky mountains, and seasonal wildflowers this alpine lake ignites all senses. The color alone is absolutely mesmerizing. I find myself here at least once every summer.  You can access Emerald from a few different routes all of which are old mining roads. Although most are well maintained, I would recommend an experienced driver and a 4×4 vehicle with a high enough clearance for large rocks. For those interested, Slate River Road, Gothic, and Washington Gulch will get you there. If you are unfamiliar with the area, terrain or basic backcountry knowledge always seek help from local guides or opt to take a shuttle tour. Places like The Alpineer, Crested Butte Anglers, Chamber of Commerce, Alpine Express, and Dolly’s Mountain Shuttle are good starting points to get your adventure on the go.

Emerald is a perfect place to spend a day by the lake with a nice picnic, a paddle-board, and your pup. Or take a photograph and a skinny dip while cruising through the mountains on a warm summers day. I will warn you the water has never felt what I would consider to be warm but always exhilarating and always worth it. We passed by Emerald last weekend when we visited Colorado’s Iconic Crystal Mill in Crystal, Colorado. It was on our way home down a twisty, narrow, dirt road. All routes are the scenic routes in Colorado it seems, at least in Crested Butte.

Do alpine lakes tickle your fancy? Would you take a dip in Emerald? Or do you prefer warm oceans?

I like a bit of both myself! 

As always, thank you for joining me here!

And remember you are so appreciated ♥

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p.s. Was anyone on the path of totality for the solar eclipse yesterday? We had partial effects but not complete darkness.