Fall Colors

I realize this post should have come before the snow post, since the colors came before the snow... Truth be told, I was hoping to get up into the aspen groves for more pictures but work and training schedules got in the way. Not quite as spectacular as last fall at Great Smoky Mountains, but still beautiful to see.
My last time up in the alpine was for the last (not just my last, but the last) bristlecone trail rove and talk of the season. It couldn't have been a more beautiful day. Above and below are views from the trail up to the grove.

I went with a co-worker after work one evening to hear the elk bugling again. We went up Strawberry Creek, same as last time, and it was marvelous. There was this little patch of color surrounded by elegant green. I love the north end of the park; and the south end too for that matter...I just love this beautiful place I feel so incredibly privileged to have worked here this season.Looking down the Strawberry drainage. We saw one elk, a bull, a little closer than I was comfortable with, and we heard quite a few as well. It's a pretty awe inspiring sound. And a bit funny too to think something that big, and powerful, and elegant, and wildness encompassing can make such a high pitched noise.

I've only got a few more weeks out here before I head on to my next adventure. I still don't know what it is but I know it's going to be grand.