Once a through road to the San Luis Valley, Hermit Pass puts you up just above 13k ft. Though no Ghost Towns are found on the pass, it was one I had been wanting to do for some time. It’s a long but mild drive to the top and worth every bit for the views. Especially once above timberline!

Starting the climb up Hermit Pass. Westcliff in the distance.

Views from camp. We took the first available spot that could hold a large group.

Around camp.

Socially distant and outdoors with good friends. Hard to beat these trips!

Evening sets in.

Morning light.

Camp.

Summer flowers.

Further along on the Hermit Pass road.

Starting to climb out of treeline.

The views!

Making the last switchbacks to the top.

Low hanging clouds as we crested the pass. Kinda surel.

Taking in the views….

The group (making sure we didn’t park on the tundra).

Love this shot.

Looking back down towards Horseshoe Lake (Hermit Lake in the distance) and the Wet Mountains.

Some fine views.

Heading back down. Being a Saturday, along with the trail just outside Westcliff, there was a bit of trail traffic, though everyone seemed to be respectful.

Some great views as you drop back down!

Columbines.

End.