Monday, February 4, 2013

Coyote Song Trail

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About a mile's walk from my home is South Valley Park - a portion of Colorado's Jefferson County Open Space.  South Valley Park is a 909-acre park with approximately 6.8 miles of natural surface trails and 1.2 miles of hard surface trails. Recreational activities include picnicking, hiking, biking, horseback riding and of course, wildlife viewing. This past weekend my husband and I decided to take a break from unpacking and organizing our house to take a walk along the three-mile loop trail in the park called the Coyote Song Trail.


My husband and I walked up a moderate hill at the beginning of the trail closest to our neighborhood...


...and once on top, we saw this beautiful view of the trail meandering out towards South Park Valley! It always takes my breath away when I see this!


South Valley Park is a dream for geologists and archaeologists. It's solid rock monoliths and walls exhibit both the Fountain and Lyons Formations that are between 290 and 296 million years old. Archaeologists have discovered evidence that suggests the South Valley was inhabited by hunter-gatherers 12,000-10,000 years before present.


There were remnants of snow from a few days before, but the day we hiked the temperature was sunny and in the high 50's.


It was fascinating to see all the different beautiful red sandstone rock formations along the trail and to think how old and enduring they were.


They stood like proud monuments to a different time.


I imagined that the Native Americans had names for them as they once lived in the shelter of many of these monoliths.


The trail path winds at slightly different elevations around these formations but is not too strenuous to walk if one is used to the slightly higher than a mile altitude...




This mother was carrying her young son on her back, as he had tired out from the hike.


At one point on the trail, there were a few placards with descriptions of how the Fountain Formation in the distance was formed. It described how five foot long millipedes and dragonflies with 30-inch wingspans were once common in this area 300 million years ago! (If you click on all photos in this post once they will enlarge, click on them again to see them even larger. Use your browser's back arrow to return to this post.)


To preserve their integrity, no climbing is allowed on the rock formations in the park.




We really enjoyed our hike!


I could not stop smiling, as I was in awe to be walking in such a beautiful place...


...and of course, I could not stop taking photos!


I know we will be back to walk this, and other trails, many times in the future.


This area is so close to Denver and accessible to all! If you love nature it is a wonderful way to spend some time in South Valley Park.


The sidewalk path in our neighborhood we took home after leaving the trail. We really do love where we live and I can't wait to show you more about our area and all we see in Colorado! Meanwhile, our baby granddaughter will be arriving this week!  We are all very excited and can't wait to meet her--stayed tuned!


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61 comments:

Snap said...

How lucky you are to have this wonderful trail so close to your home! You will enjoy it year round. Just wait until the desert blooms! I know you are excited about the arrival of your grand-daughter. We will be waiting to hear the news!

Lorrie said...

What wide expanses of sky you saw along your walk. And such interesting formations. What a wonderful world we live in.

There's nothing like the sweetness of a newborn baby girl. Enjoy every precious minute.

SmilingSally said...

It's good to hear from you again. I've missed you!

Colorado is beautiful country; we visited once and were quite impressed with the same beauty as you showed today. Thanks for sharing your blue skies.

Enjoy that grandbaby! Happy Blue Monday, Pat.

Unknown said...

Hi Pat,
I have to tell you, now that you have moved to a place that I have never been to, I feel like a kid in a candy store with anticipation of what you might post.

You have such a wonderful way of adding the history to your gorgeous photography. Love this place and such an interesting view.

Karen

ellen b. said...

How fabulous that you have this all at your doorstep! Beautiful country for sure. Glad you are enjoying it...

Ciao Chow Linda said...

Your excitement is palpable, even without the beautiful photos. Can't wait to hear about the little one to come. You must be beside yourself with joy.

Barbara F. said...

Oh Pat, I am glad you and Vinnie are good walkers and can enjoy the parks in your neighborhood. It is such incredible scenery. It looks like the Citibank commercial where the couple go mountain climbing and there is that great song playing in the background. Can't wait to see photos of the new grandchild! I wish Lisa a speedy delivery! What a beautiful baby she will have. xo

Vee said...

What a glorious place to walk, Pat! I love it that you're all smiles. Who wouldn't be?! I look forward to seeing it in all seasons. Will be watching for further news...

podso said...

Wow you planned it all well to arrive just in time to be settled before the baby comes. Have you adjusted to the altitude? You must if you are hiking! Your neighborhood shots look familiar so I'm guessing you are close to our friends' location. Trust all goes very well this week! And thanks for you kind comments re my mother.

Thoughts on Life and Millinery. said...

I am hooked on your trail choice! Next visit to Denver area I will suggest it, although the Gardens of the Gods trails still beckon us.

Praying for a gentle arrival of your grand daughter.

Old Kitty said...

I didn't realise how big these red rocks were until the pic with people in it!! They're massive!!

Awwww what most desolate and beautiful place! Glad people are able to enjoy these natural wonders!

Take care
x

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

What a different landscape that what you have been used to. I know you are taking photos everywhere you go! Hiking can really make you 'feel' the higher altitude but you learn to pace yourself. You can always stop to take a photo! heehee! I know this is an exciting week! Keep us updated and I'll keep them in my prayers. Sweet hugs!

Pamela Gordon said...

Wow! What a gorgeous place to live, visit and enjoy. Beautiful photos Pat! Can't wait to see pics of your new granddaughter. Blessings.

Lisa@GrandmasBriefs said...

I can't begin to express what a joy it is to see you writing about my home state now. A whole new chapter for you and a whole new tourist guide for all your readers. (Again, you gotta publish travel guides, my friend.) Congratulations on the successful move AND the coming arrival of your granddaughter. Joy abounds!
And thank you (!!) for linking up to the GRAND Social! Wonderful to see you there.

Debra at HOMESPUN: http://www.thehomespun.com said...

Such beautiful rugged scenery..I enjoyed the tour! And oh how fun to have a baby coming...!:)

Anonymous said...


It is truly a beautiful part of the country, although I would be glad I wasn't around when the five foot millipedes were!!

I'm so looking forward to you telling us all about your new granddaughter!

Linda said...

What a wonderful place for a hike...so glad you are getting to know the area around your new home...quite a difference between Colorado and New York! As usual...your pictures are amazing...I always leave your posts wanting to travel where you go!! Have a great day!!

Oh I can't wait to hear about the new wee one coming!!

eileeninmd said...

Pat, what a lovely trail. Much different than walking the streets of NYC! I loved these photos and the deer photos on facebook are wonderful. Have a happy week!

Michelle said...

We always love hiking trails when we visit Denver. I know you really are loving this area! There is a lot to love!!!

Sarah said...

Pat, this is a beautiful area. Such a stark difference from Brooklyn and NYC. Fun to have all these new adventures in life. Enjoy!

nannykim said...

Oh my!! you have moved to Colorado?? I had no idea--what a change!! I am looking forward to seeing more photos! It would be grand to live near beautiful hiking trails. One reason I love the mountain areas in SC so much is because of the trails. I live on the other side of SC---while it is nice to walk on the beach, I miss the trails. I do enjoy Brookgreen Gardens---but it is not the same as a nice hike out on trails!Hey, the gluten free Bisquick is at Walmart and I get it at other stores as well. I use it in my cornbread now too!

nannykim said...

ps...soooooooo happy that you are living near your daughter and the new arrival!!! I wish I lived closer to my grands!

Maude Lynn said...

Amazing pictures!

Micupoftea said...

SO gorgeous, so scenic! What a great place to live. I would take walks there daily if I lived nearby! Thanks for sharing the pics of the valley and rocks. Happy Valentine's Day~

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Amazing the differences in the area around Brooklyn and the area around Colorado... WOW--that is gorgeous!!! What a wonderful walk. So glad you both took that trail. Reminds me a little of our walk at the Garden of the Gods in Col. Springs.

Hugs,
Betsy

Rettabug said...

What a difference from the views you were used to seeing, huh Pat! I'm excited about the arrival of your new grandbaby & wish you all the very best. How wonderful that you are nearby to help out & enjoy!

I have a sister in Limon, CO., a niece & her hubby in Grand Junction, CO. & another niece in Colorado Springs! We've been there many times to ski...Telluride was always my favorite but we've done Vail & Steamboat & Winter Park, too. Lots of great memories!

Enjoy your sunshine!
Warm Hugs,
Rett

p.s. If I had an Etsy shop, then it would become "work" not play. LOL I'd rather play!

The Gathering Place said...

What a beautiful hiking place! It is always nice to get some exercise and feed the spirit with beauty at the same time. Good luck with your new grand baby. Can't wait to meet her!

Pondside said...

I just knew you would find the best places in your new neighbourhood. What a beautiful place you've found to live!

Unknown said...

Gorgeous! And how EXCITING. Congratulations! :)

Judy said...

How did I know that you would show us the most incredible sights around your new home? Beautiful! I'm so happy for you...and look forward to many more tours to come...with you as our guide.

Cheryl @ TFD said...

Beautiful photos! The scenery is just breathtaking! What a wonderful place to walk. I can see by your expression that you love it there! And that new grandbaby coming soon is so exciting. We'll be watching for news and photos!

Yogi♪♪♪ said...

A great hike and so close to your house. It looks like a great place to go trail running also.

Ebie said...

Hi Pat, I could feel you are enjoying your new environs. Not only that, you are more closer to your kids!

I am so happy for you!

Sarah Coller said...

What a gorgeous place to live! Thanks for showing off your pretty photos!

I'm hosting my Homemaking Linkup Weekend and would love to have you join, if you'd like!

Have a great day!
Mrs. Sarah Coller

Unknown said...

magnificent landscape! the red sandstone formations are beautiful.

Fun60 said...

That looked like a wonderful walk and so close to where you live. Thanks for taking me along. Have a good week as I'm sure you will with your grandaughter visiting.

Jackie said...

Oh my this place has wonderful views! I love every single shot you took!

The orange color of the rocks against that deep blue sky is beautiful and what a lovely name for the trail!

Thanks for taking the hike and these wonderful photos.

I am lucky number 670 in your GFc followers. I had to join when I saw you at 669.

I hope you have a great week. I know you will though if your granddaughter is coming!

Have fun!

Maria's Space said...

I can't say I blame you. I would be in awe too!

The color palette of the desert is beautiful.

here are my blues

Hootin Anni said...

I grew up in Colorado and raised my kids there before retiring to the coast. But I must say, the very first thing I thought of was you don't wanna walk this in late Spring when the days begin to warm up...I see rattle snakes in my vision. Lots of them.

Glorious scenery. I enjoyed the walk in the crisp, clear, mountain air.

Tanna said...

Having such wonderful trails AND sidewalk would really be an encouragement to walk for me! Beautiful. Can't wait to hear about Baby Girl's arrival!! xoxox ~ tanna

Anonymous said...

I'm happy to know you're adjusting so well in Colorado... while I left half of my heart in NYC!!

~Kc Waddell said...

Your photos are beautiful -- what a wonderful place to walk and enjoy nature! Just stopping by from the GRAND Social Linky Party and it would be great if you would do the same!

Willow said...

It's a truly beautiful place to hike.

Looking forward to news about your new girl!

Claudia said...

I love your new adventure and well... just a tad jealous. The walk is a wonder. Surrounded by such beauty, family and wildlife - you must greet the new day with open arms. I am wondering - do you need to adjust cooking at the altitude?

Sara at Come Away With Me said...

Hello Pat, I'm just catching up on your Colorado posts. I can see why you are so thrilled to be there, with access to those beautiful wide open spaces which seem to be all golden this time of year anyway. And deer in your garden, and dinner by candlelight watching snow fall, and that glorious golden cloud over your neighborhood in an earlier post.

My name is Riet said...

Hi Pat. You must live a totally different life now and so beautiful. What a beutiful country it is and what a wonderful time lies ahead of you.
And now the babygirl is coming soon. How wonderful. You must be so excited. I bet you can hardly wait.It will be so nice for your daughter too to have you so near.
Good luck and don't get nervous, :)))))

Ps did you sell your house?

Chatty Crone said...

Gosh you have sold your place in NY! Moved to Colorado and almost unpacked. And your daughter is due any day. And your area is gorgeous. You are so lucky - and I am so happy for you. sandie

Janet said...

What breathtaking beauty!

SavoringTime in the Kitchen said...

What a beautiful place to hike! It's no wonder that Colorado is one of the most healthy states in the country with lovely trails like this.

Al said...

That is indeed a beautiful park, very nice photos. And yes, March is typically the snowiest month of the year here, with April second.

Beth said...

Colorado is such an amazing place; so, so beautiful. We have been to Estes Park quite a few times and love it there; I'd love to live there but hubby's work is here (IA). I'd also love to explore more of CO; so much to see in this beautiful state. Hope all goes well for your daughter and granddaughter. I am so glad you are able to live close to your daughters and their families. There is a blogger, Noreen, whose blog you might enjoy. Noreen and her hubby retired and moved from California to Colorado; their two grown daughters and their families also moved to CO. Her blog is Life Blessings: http://nananors(dot)blogspot(dot)com

Annesphamily said...

Colorado is covered with wonderful walking trails! Colorado is considered one of the leanest and healthiest states! I live in Northglenn with 25 parks and open trails covering 250 acres! The parks are connected by 28 miles of the Greenway Trail System, which criss-cross the city and connect with some of the major trail systems of the Denver area. Other than Boulder we have lots of undeveloped natural land and probably more than any other state!
Your tour was beautiful and all the natural settings are breathe taking. Once we get to feeling better, my hubby has bronchitis and I am just exhausted from the work week we will resume our run/walk schedule. They are beautifying the Thornton Rec Center area and we live within walking distance of it! We love it early in the morning to watch the birds and ducks but they are adding a skate park, tennis courts and other noisy activities upsetting the natural beauty of the two man made ponds! Sigh! All in all we are very proud to live in Colorado and also to be natives!
I am happy you are enjoying your new home and waiting on that sweet new baby to be born!
Always good to see you here! Love to you and yours and lots of prayers being said for a safe, quick and healthy delivery of that grand girl! : ) Anne

Chubskulit Rose said...

I'd love to explore out there, so beautiful!

Visiting from Ruby Tuesday.
My RUBIES
Your comment is always appreciated.

Jeanne said...

Hello Pat, It is a blessing to hear you talk about your new life in Colorado. I love the photos so much, especially the one of you and I am thinking your hubs walking ahead of you. I love your happy smile. I scrolled down to your previous post and your photos tell a happy story.

Best wishes to your new granddaughter which may be here by now. I pray all goes well.

I have been busy with my cousin visiting for over two weeks now. Not much time for my computer. Sigh!
Love and wishes for happy days in your new home. We have deer in our area too. I love to see them.
Jeanne xo

Liz said...

Wonderful pics.

My entries:
Liz (mcn)
Liz (mot)

From Beyond My Kitchen Window said...

Just think how healthy you guys will stay with all Colorado's outdoor activities. Next year you can snow shoe!! Wonderful photos.

Vicki @ Grams Made It said...

What a gorgeous place to live and how wonderful to have a great place to hike so close to home.

Stopping in from the GRAND Social.

Lovella ♥ said...

I'm so happy you are there! With family and the beautiful surroundings you truly look at home there. What a treat for us readers to see the scenery there through you!

La Petite Gallery said...

I can't imagine that NYC gal walking on this trail. This is so beautiful.
We are all waiting for the new addition, so keep us posted.
Have you seen Bob Cats and snakes
yet?
yvonne

Anonymous said...

So different from your neighborhood in New York...it is incredibly beautiful. You must be amazed each time you discover a new area to enjoy. Karen

Roz | La Bella Vita Cucina said...

I just love Colorado, such a beautiful state where we vacation a LOT! Looks like you are enjoying it!