Stardate 2015.688

Late Summer Wetlands

Yah ta hey!

Below are some pics from a recent ride Snowcatcher and I took through the wetlands of Chatfield Reservoir, Colorado. We don't ride here much because the area is devoid of any climbing, and also you need to watch out for equestrians, fishermen and hikers. Nonetheless, the riparian area along the South Platte River above the reservoir is lush and full of wildlife. In places, the flora was so impenetrable it reminded me of my MS field sites in western Oregon.

Our steeds await our departure into the green abyss.



The horse path eventually turns into a narrow fisherman's trail, providing for delightful singletrack riding.



Cottonwoods and Virginia creeper catch the eye. Two hundred years ago, this riparian zone could have been a camp occupied by the indigenous Arapahoe Tribe.



You need to watch your step if you venture off trail for fear of things that rattle and bite.



Virginia creeper doing what it does best – creep.



The flowered head of a Mullein plant
Verbascum thapsus
Figwort family



The highly controlled flow of the South Platte River quietly continues its journey toward its confluence with the North Platte River in Nebraska; at this point, they become the Platte River. Then it's on to the Missouri River, Mississippi River and ultimately the Gulf of Mexico.



South Platte River




Later gator, that's it for now.

Adios