I like getting up on the tundra this time of year. Normally there would be more snow and wildflowers.  Niwot mountain is a relatively quick (less than 1 hour) hike up from near Lefthand Reservoir.  Niwot is named after a native Indian chief of the Arapaho. His nickname was Left Hand, probably for obvious reasons.

Lefthand Reservoir and Mount Audubon from Niwot Mountain (11,400 elevation)

Mount Audubon, in the photo above, is a thirteener, meaning it’s summit is over 13,000 feet in elevation.  I know I’ve attempted the summit a couple of times, decades ago.  I don’t remember ever making all of the way up.  It’s a long hike with a 3,000 foot elevation gain.  I’d like to attempt it again this year and cement a yay or nay into my memory.  I think if I could stop injuring myself, I’d be in good enough shape to accomplish it.

Some type of shrine/memorial at the top of Niwot

I have mixed feelings when I discover shrines or memorials in conspicuous places along trails or on top of mountains.  They’re interesting to look at, but they are selfish when placed at such a public point.  There are so many corners of the forests or on the sides of mountains that would be more appropriate.  But claiming a major mountain top as your own is simply self-centered.