Jim Creek Trail shortly after sunrise Above, left; In the midst of a wind-blown forest, a Columbine searches for sunshine. Above, right; The morning’s early sun begins the warming process over Jim Creek.[/caption]

Alarm goes off at 4:51 a.m., exercise routine begins. I am fed, showered, and at the computer by 7:30 a.m. After an eight-hour work day, school begins. Freelance work shortly follows my academic attempts. In bed by 9 p.m. Repeat.

Sometimes, I’d much rather be hiking. So, let us venture the 53 miles from Black Hawk to the Jim Creek Trailhead in Winter Park, Colorado. It was the 28th of July 2021, when just before sunrise, I left my humble abode.

The air was hazed over from the California wildfires. Luckily, I couldn’t smell the smoke. What I could sense, however, were the changes that were, once again, taking over my life. All good changes, by the way.

While on the path to discovery, I bumped into a few wild flowers, fungi, and a moose lurking between the trees in a meadow. Jim Creek Trail is a year-round, eight mile hike out and back. It is a moderate trail that features a waterfall.

Yes, the trail is heavily trafficked. If you, like me, are not a huge fan of crowds, get there early. Be warned, that once the trail starts to pick up elevation, you’re going to come upon thousands of wind-blown trees. It reminded me of an apocalyptic movie. It just wasn’t as scary. It is only nature doing its thing.

After a few miles of swatting at the mosquitoes, I paused to snap some photos of one of my favorite creatures in the animal kingdom: butterflies! Bears are my other favorite. Ruddy Coppers, Cabbage Whites, and Sleepy Oranges fluttered before me in dancing patterns. It was magical.

The moment approached and it was time to head back to the truck. I stopped a few more times to enjoy the view, listen to the creek, and talk to the mountains. I also contemplated the upcoming days and wished I could fly away with the butterflies.

Please don’t get me wrong. I have nothing to complain about. In the grand scheme of things, I find myself to be truly spoiled and blessed. I’ve got great jobs, a modest life, my health to be thankful for, and above all else, the gratitude of living where I live. I simply prefer to always be exploring in nature.

NOTE: No direct links to Jim Creek Trail are available. From Black Hawk, head west on I-70. Take exit #232 toward U.S. 40. Stay on U.S. 40 for roughly 25 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 128 and follow the road (towards the left) to Jim Creek Trailhead.