Marla and I felt a little cooped up and really needed an outdoor fix to elevate the spirits. A hike in the nearby mountains was the perfect remedy! We were both craving fresh air, the smell of pine trees, and the sound of a stream as a bonus! The big question was “where to go?”

I met newlyweds Willow and Adam on a bike trip in Italy a few years ago. Willow is a Facebook friend, and I often see her photos of fun family hikes in the Boulder area. She was the perfect person to ask for hiking advice!

Willow suggested the “Anne U. White” trail northwest of Boulder, saying it was beautiful and easy. Note the “Face Covering Required” sign at the trailhead. We put them on whenever we encountered anyone on the trail. Everyone followed the rules.

Marla is ready to begin! The trail follows “Four Mile Canyon Creek” and starts at 6040′.

Ponderosa pines, firs, aspens, and cottonwoods line the trail and provide needed shade when it is hot. This was the first time using hiking sticks. Sometimes it was easier to carry them!

There is still a little damage from the 2013 flood.

Large boulders are placed to make crossing the stream pretty easy.

I was on the lookout for the elusive “Calypso Orchid”. ( Also known as “Fairy Slipper.) I didn’t see any on this trip.

As the trail became steeper Mar had a little difficulty. Her legs are not quite as strong as she would like due to taking Prednisone for her PMR, an inflammatory disorder affecting the joints and connective tissue. She can’t wait for it to end! I was really proud of her as she gives everything 110%!

A view down the river gorge.

As you can see the trail is beautiful and very well maintained.

I love the juxtaposition of the pine and the rock wall.

Time to head back to the car. We are excited to try a few new trails this summer. A good local trail resource is “Day Hikes Near Denver.“

As we approached the car I looked down and spied this little rock with a painted heart on it. This is how we felt about the hike. “Thank you Willow for giving us some really great hiking ideas.”

On the way home, we stopped at Mustard’s Last Stand, a family favorite in both Boulder and Denver. They are open for takeout only, ordering through a window (with masks) and we picnicked in the car! We really had a wonderful day and can’t wait for more exciting…and safe explorations!

Photos: Dick Gentry. Not to be used without permission. And Mustard’s Last Stand.