2009.07.10-11 10...9...8 (REDCLOUD, SUNSHINE, & HANDIES PEAKS)

Three more of Colorado's 14ers checked off the list, leaving only 7 more to go. Redcloud, Sunshine, and Handies Peak are situated in the heart of the San Juan mountain range in southwestern Colorado. From the summit of these peaks, the 360 degree panoramic view of mountains in all directions in truly spectacular. I chose to do these peaks in summer in hopes of seeing the wildflowers in full bloom. Although, my visit turned out to be a week or so early, the basins were full of color nonetheless.

Devon hiking at sunrise with Handies Peak looming across the valley:

Devon and I on the summit of Redcloud Peak (14,036 feet):

Starting on the traverse to Sunshine Peak (14,001 feet):

Devon, relieved to be back on solid ground after a steep, loose descent down the north slopes of Sunshine:

The state flower of Colorado, columbines, in the beautiful Grizzly Gulch basin:

Hiking towards the summit of Handies Peak:

Devon spots a moose!:

A closer look: