Glacier Ridge
We ran to the top of Georgia Pass and we decided to explore Glacier Ridge. It was a last-minute decision, but it turned out to be a really good one. We both really enjoyed the challenges and the incredible scenery.
Out of all of the trails going in every direction from the top of Georgia Pass, Glacier Ridge is the easiest one to find. We left the crowds at the pass and continued higher in elevation. We saw a few people at the intersection for the Colorado Trail.
The first hill climb is always a fun one. We've done it before when we've gone up to the top of it in the past. But we've never gone any farther and we were looking forward to it.
Even though the first hill climb is rough and bouncy, what came next was even more intimidating. The trail follows the Continental Divide, and just after the first hill climb it is a little distance down from the top of the ridge. The trail cuts across this steep slant, and in places it was fairly tippy. Loose rocks on the trail made it even more unnerving. We didn't have any issues, though it definitely made you pay attention.
After going up and down over ridges a few more times we came down into the saddle. Just in front of us, a mountain goat stood in the trail between us and a baby goat. We took our pictures and then slowly drove closer. The goats moved toward and over the ridge in no particular hurry.
We kept going, and soon we saw the second hill climb. It looked impossible! We thought that maybe it would be closed, but it was open when we got there. As soon as we started up it we realized that looks were deceiving. It was definitely steep and loose, but definitely doable. We climbed up and over the top.
The trail eventually just ended. We had been traveling on exposed dirt and rocks that formed the trail, and suddenly it ended in the alpine grass. We parked and got out to check out the incredible views.
Unfortunately, we also saw tracks in the grass where ATVs had created their own trails. Those kind of trails last a long time, so we had no idea when they had been created. It was a bummer.
We soon headed back as it was really cold at the top. On the way back, we found two ATVs on their way up. One of them was driving on the grass, trying to get close to the goats to get a picture. The goats ran away as best as they could, but they were on a steep ridge. Luckily, they didn't fall.
We saw another Jeep on the way down but otherwise we had the trail to ourselves. It was a blast! It was a completely different trail on the way out. This is a trail we're going to have to include along with our regular trails.
