Popo Agie Falls

We had some winds Sunday night and our thin blood was adjusting to the cooler temps of the north, but we slept well. Monday morning we were deciding what to do, we didn't have to drive anywhere and we had all this newfound, unfamiliar freedom?! A hike of course, but which one? After talking to the hosts of the tiny campground we decided to go up to the falls. We were told we could take our suits and slide down like the local kids did if we wanted, but were forewarned that it takes the EMT's awhile to get up there should someone get hurt.

So we got our water and our backpacks and took off in the direction of the falls. We take backpacks because I've read numerous articles and a few books on backpacking, hiking, SAR's, etc., and I've read enough to know I would much prefer to be safe than sorry. But hiking in the altitude, with a pack was an unnecessary reminder of the ahem...pounds that I've gained and that my body just ain't what it used to be, my ticker included. But it was a very pretty, enjoyable hike. Brian jumped at the first snake. I snickered. I jumped at the second snake. That's Karma. I stopped along the way and took photos here & there. We also saw lots of new moms hiking with their tiny newborns, which was impressive.

Big Rock

The falls were pretty big and it was a good resting point. We looked and looked and did not see even one place that looked even remotely sane to slide down. Maybe we would have had to go further up? There were several trails that led off. I followed one of them up a ways and came to a remote opening that was full of large, unfamiliar animal droppings. I left.

This was the valley between Sinks Canyon and the small, quaint town Lander. It was very gorgeous & green, with the mountains as a backdrop. The photo hardly does it justice, but it gives you an idea.

By the end of the five mile hike I was tired. But it was the happy, dead on your feet tired. So I sat at the picnic table listening to the soothing sound of the lake while I threw together our big, yummy 7-Layer salad.