Lexington Arch Hike

We decided to do a Christmas Day hike with the family. My mom and Adam joined us. No snow means we can still hike in the high country. I haven't been to Lexington Arch for years. This is the first time I've seen this since the fire and flash-floods. I knew this hike would kick our ass, but I was excited!

We meandered through the skeleton tree ghosts of Christmas Past  :P

It was warm enough in the sun, we shed some layers.....

The arch was visible through the burned trees. Can you spot it?

I had to take a picture of my mom when she stood still. This wonder woman is a mountain goat. She tackles the trail with minimal effort lol 

I think this might be the first time my boots walked upon measurable snow this year...

Do you want to build a snowman; er...... climb a tree?

It was really strange to see the arch from the distance. Trees once blocked the view. I was happy to see more light, especially since the sun was getting lower in the sky.

There it was, the seven- story tall limestone arch. What a beauty. It's fun edit the photos and make it look like a painting.

After some group pictures, we continued up the trail to the backside of the arch.... and soon inside it.

We didn't spend too much time here; it was getting colder! The late afternoon chill was upon us. Mostly because we were now in the shade. Burrrr. Three miles up ~ now three miles back down.
You don't get too much light to play during the day in December.

Eventually we caught up with some sunshine again. We walked slowly as it warmed up our backs. Check out this flash flood wash. The roots of the trees were exposed and dangling. 

 6 miles later, we still have smiles. What a merry Christmas!