While we visited my brother, we all set out for a camping/hiking trip on July 7, 2008. We were going to hike the Ice Lakes Trail the next day, so we looked for a camping spot in the Mineral Creek valley. Since we were in the San Juan National Forest, we passed on the established camping areas for some privacy. It took some scouting, but we finally found an amazing spot a couple of miles downstream from the trailhead, in a large riverside grove around 9,750 ft. We hiked our gear in about a quarter-mile to the area where we set up camp, however, the seclusion was well worth it.
Our camp itself was the best place I have ever placed a tent. We were streamside with a perfect canopy, plenty of wood, a great spot on the river to sink drinks, and breaktaking views everywhere. It was my favorite site. After we set up camp, we relaxed for the rest of the evening by the fire. I took a crack at fishing in Mineral Creek, however the water was too swift. I decided to relax with everyone else instead, after probably less than an hour of fishing...and no takes. The days were perfect, however, nights were downright cold with temps around 40. Our fire was incredible in the cold air at night.
The next day some of us hiked the Ice Lakes Trail, as Kellie and Tiffany went to soak in town and get us a couple of rafts for the next day. We enjoyed the camp site so much we decided to stay a few extra days. Unfortunately, we did have an accident as Ravi burned his hand in the fire. It was miserable to see him in that much pain! We packed up on the 9th and headed back to Mike's, due to Ravi's injury, and ended up rafting the Uncompahgre as an alternative. The good news is that Ravi's burn healed up just fine after a few painful days.
 The beautiful San Juans around our campsite. |
 My quick attempt to fish Mineral Creek. |
 Fuller and I clean dishes in the stream. |
 Moon over the mountains at sunset. |
 A distant afternoon storm toward Silverton dissipates at sunset. |
 Kellie does not want to get up in the cold morning air. |
 Our camp, taken from the stream. |
 A chipmunk checks things out perched on a rock. |