Water Zen - by Chris Earley

This is an image from the shore of Columbine Lake near Silverton, Colorado., in the San Juan Range. The hike to get there was a doozie. Columbine Lake Trail is only 2.8 miles one way, but has a really steep first half. It starts with a series of 15 switchbacks through pine woodlands climbing roughly 2200 vertical feet the first 2 miles. Ooof.

After the switchbacks, the trail emerges into a basin and continues to climb steadily up to a rocky saddle, remaining steep for another mile as it climbs above the tree line to a ridge saddle, reaching an elevation of 12,448 feet at the 2 mile point. The trail then flattens and once you arrive at the lake, you’re in for a real treat. The water is gorgeous as are the peaks surrounding it. When I arrived, a bit winded, I was mesmerized. The contrast of the rough sun-baked rock and the cold crystal blue water was visual bliss for me. I had to capture it the bliss and this was the result.

The hike wore out my legs and blistered my toes, but it was well worth it to experience another of Colorado's glorious landscapes once again. I have this printed in canvas in my bedroom, along with other waterscapes. It brings me calm and peace - a Zen vibe. I hope you enjoy it and perhaps have it hang on your wall some day!