I joined a great friend last Friday for a hike at one of my favorite spots a short drive outside of Denver.

Pavilion Point was a stop along the old grade of the Argentine Central Railroad that ran from Silver Plume to the old mining town of Waldorf and ultimately, McClellan Mt. ( 13,587ft). In the later days of the railroad, they built a pavilion at the top of Leavenworth Mountain where passengers could stay the night.

At 4%, the hike along the old railroad grade is an easy one. As you start the climb, the noise of I-70 quickly fades away and the hike becomes a wonderful stroll the forest. During the summer and fall month’s, echo’s of the Georgetown Loop can be heard. Further up the grade, we found the Aspens to be well into fall with some great color. Once at the top, we spent some time soaking in the views and the weather before heading back down. After, an ale at Cabin Creek Brewery. Then the drive back down. Another Friday in the hills.

Making our way along the old grade of the Argentine Central Railroad. A fine fall morning for a hike.

There are a few mines along the old grade, once serviced by the railroad. Always fun exploring them, while hearing the sounds of the Georgetown Loop in the distance.

Leaves are changing.

More old mines.

Fun to imagine an old steam train working it’s way though the forest.

Always fine views of the I-70 corridor from the top of Pavilion Point. Silver Plume down below in the distance.

Looking back on Georgetown and some golden hills.

What’s left of the old Pavilion. Built in the later years of the Argentine Central, it was made as a stopover for passengers riding the train. It even had a dance hall.

Looking down on some of the rock word that was done to make the grade. It’s crazy to think that they completed work on this grade to the old town of Waldorf (11,600+ feet) in one summer back in the early 1900’s. The original owner of the Argentine Central Edward Wilcox, was a former pasture. The Argentine Central was on of the only trains to not operate on Sunday.

Such a prefect morning for a hike. So peaceful through the goldening Aspens.

An old landslide.

Of course, a stop to Cabin Creek Brewery while in Georgetown is a must.

And the contrast of living downtown. Later that evening, visited with another friend at there condo, taking in the evening on the patio.