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| The Supermoon hanging over Echo Lake before dawn. |
An early start is essential when you want to catch a celestial hand-off. We were up before the sun to see the August Supermoon set as we began our drive up the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. There’s something magical about that road in the pre-dawn quiet, watching the sky shift from deep blue to fiery orange. As the moon dipped below one horizon, the sun broke over the other in a spectacular display.
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The first glimpse of the sun breaking the horizon.
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| Colors deepening as the sun climbs higher. |
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An absolutely magnificent high-altitude sunrise.
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The morning's light show, captured in reflection.
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| Watching the moon say its farewell to the summit. |
The real show, however, began when we neared the top. The mountain's famous residents, the local mountain goats, were out in force. We spent the morning watching the kids play with boundless energy on the rocks, seemingly claiming the summit as their own personal playground. The wildlife encounters continued, with a curious marmot sunning itself on the tundra.
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Our first sighting of the local mountain goat residents.
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| The kids, full of energy and exploring the rocks. |
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A young goat enjoying the morning sun.
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A quiet moment for two young mountain goats.
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| King of the mountain, surveying his domain. |
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Impressive agility on display from the youngsters.
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A well-fed marmot enjoying the morning warmth.
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| The city of Denver, visible from the summit. |
Later, back at the Echo Lake campground, the smaller creatures made their appearances: a hyperactive hummingbird darting through the trees and a bold Canada Jay (often called a Grey Jay or "camp robber") looking for opportunities. It was a fitting end to our trip—a day filled with the wild, natural beauty of a place on the verge of a new name.
Don Bergquist – 31 August 2023 – Mount Evans, Colorado, USA
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