9 miles of hiking • 4000' elevation gain •
Had not been out since Saturday last so thought I would take advantage of a nice day and get a workout in with the canine. Dibs and I decided Cow Heaven seemed a good spot to visit. After all, when was the last time you saw cow angels? We got a late start, getting to the trail head at 11:30. No cows around, but the trail was signed so we knew we were at the right place. So we headed out, and then up, and up, and up, ad infinitum. We never thought we would stop climbing and the grade.... Each time we thought the grade had eased it turned out to be nothing but a lure to keep one going ever higher and steeper. Fortunately, the surroundings (when heads were not bowed) were worth partaking in. Lush green kimonos worn by trees of unknown age, ferns filled one's vision (what were they hiding), and the creeks. Ah, the creeks, noisily cascading down from somewhere above (the source never seen by our four eyes). The tread is in good shape overall, though rocks and roots occasionally sprung up to remind the trekker to bow down before Mother Nature. A slow, steady, bovine pace at last brought to we two souls our goal: the meadows that are Cow Heaven. No cows, past or present, bovine or angelic, were seen but the views of surrounding peaks and the colors of autumn were enough to satisfy the most fatigued foot traveler. To believe that cows once grazed here is difficult. The slow, plodding, not very bright beasts are probably laughing from their celestial pastures above at those who make this trek but one thing is certain: those who do are a little closer to heaven. If you want a challenge and solitude, you cannot ask for a better outing.
Roman
October 10, 2013
Really good write up.