Dave Pete wrote:
Recently having need to head this-a-way, we spent an overnight at the Ryan Park Campground, on the Saratoga, WY side of the route. On our way there, we drove from Laramie and Centennial, westbound toward Saratoga, WY on Wyoming State Highway 130.
We had lived near this segment of Wyoming for six years back in the late eighties, but hadn't been back here for quite some time. Back in the day, we used to hunt for National Forest Service permitted Christmas Trees - on snowshoes - then down to the Hobo Pool, a free hot springs and family soak (with changing/rest rooms) located adjacent to the municipal swimming pool in Saratoga.
Here at an elevation of 10,665', is an observation point named Libby Flats. At this elevation, the wind blows near constant, putting the tree branches on the east sides of the tree trunks, almost invariably. And on this day in early June, there was still enough snow to keep the upper campgrounds closed.
But the scenery is spectacular, especially with the snow. Back in the 1930's the CCC was here too, where they built this observation platform. Enjoy the views!
When you know what you're looking for, you'll see Rocky Mountain National Park in some of these shots.
Conditions here are difficult, but life is tenacious. Little tufts of life appear on the downwind sides of any other live system willing to poke its head into the flow. Little islands of growth are the result, dotting the barren looking landscapes.
But there really isn't anything barren. Life is everywhere!
Just a side note.
