RAREFIED AIR
Monarch Crest Trail
Monarch Pass to Marshall Pass;
Open only between early July and September, this high-elevation 11-mile stretch of the Colorado National Scenic Trail is 20 miles west of and 5,000 feet above Salida. The Monarch Crest Trail begins at 11,312 feet on Monarch Pass, and climbs to traverse a high ridge and remains at nearly 12,000 feet most of the way to Marshall Pass. It’s clear enough for mountain bikers, but start riding before 9 a.m. to finish in time to elude afternoon thunderstorms.
HIGH-COUNTRY EYE CANDY
Wildflowers
Mount Evans Road
Everyone promised that this would be a show-stopper year for mountain flowers, and there’s prime viewing along Mount Evans Road, from the Dos Chappel Nature Center to the summit. You can drive, or you can sign up for a free, five-hour guided hike along Mount Goliath M. Walter Pesman Trail. The hikes leave at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Reservations required. Sign up by calling the Denver Botanic Gardens, 720-865-3533.
BEADING FRIDA KAHLO
Centennial Celebration
Studio Bead, 3180 Meade St. Denver 303-777-1813
Studio Bead in Denver’s West Highland hood is celebrating Frida Kahlo’s birthday with Beads, Braids and Brows, an artistic tribute to the Mexican folk artist that runs through July 30. Check out the work of 13 artists, and do feel free to bring along an offering to leave at the Frida shrine in the store.
