The Art of Exploration archive is where you'll find my past writings and thoughts. You are currently viewing a list of articles that were tagged in autumn.

Square Top Lake

Published September 20th, 2020 in Colorado

The colors are magnificent in Guanella Pass and the hike to Square Top Lake does not disappoint. The trail winds through alpine shrubs and rolling terrain with lovely wide-open views all around.

Mesa Trail to Shanahan Ridge

Published October 14th, 2018 in Colorado

Today, it topped sixty-five degrees for the first time in two weeks. After a morning of chores, I snuck away for the afternoon for some much-needed trail time. The late start meant I couldn’t drive far to hike, so I went to my favorite nearby standby: the Mesa Trail.

The Beauty of Plan B

Published September 22nd, 2018 in Colorado

This year, the seasons are changing fast and early above 7,000 feet. I realized that if I wanted to squeeze in one more high elevation hike before winter, I had better do it sooner rather than later.

Changing Colors

Published September 14th, 2018 in Colorado

It’s the middle of September but I’m lagging behind, still wondering what happened to August. The leaves are turning at elevations at higher elevations. If I don’t get my act together quickly, I’ll miss this year’s vibrant transition into fall. And that would be a terrible shame.

Mesa Trail

Published September 24th, 2017 in Colorado

Today is the second day in a row of cool mist, light showers, and autumnal temperatures. I venture out mid-morning hoping to log a quick local hike before the trails turn too slop.

Lake Helene

Published September 22nd, 2017 in Colorado

Looking across the still waters of Bear Lake to the landscape beyond, I admire the golden aspen leaves fluttering in the breeze. Although today marks the very first day of fall, the colorful leaves I enjoy now will soon be on the ground.

November Sunshine

Published November 7th, 2016 in Buckinghamshire

Summer Winding Down

Published September 19th, 2015 in Colorado

The beginning of autumn is just a few days away and there are signs of the new season everywhere. Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch is already gearing-up for Halloween and it’s barely the Ides of September.

Yosemite, From the Land

Published September 30th, 2013 in California

We spent the first night of our California visit in a rather shabby La Quinta in the East Bay town of Dublin. After a night squandered tossing and turning on an uncomfortable mattress, we were anxious to be on our way.

Independence Grove

Published September 16th, 2009 in Illinois

The days are getting indisputably shorter. It’s a race to finish work and get outside before the sun starts to set and the trails go dim. Today, I missed my window of opportunity for getting in a decent bike ride before sunset.

Middlefork Savanna

Published September 2nd, 2009 in Illinois

There are suddenly hints of fall everywhere. The morning air is dewy and condenses in the early hours of the day, forming tiny droplets on windshields and rear view mirrors.