Jett's Day 6: Leadville, Independence Pass and Aspen

The picture of the day

More snow, but this time it's 57º. They're in shorts!

The day started in Sylverthorne with breakfast at the hotel. Then we headed west on I-70 (the prettiest interstate in the US as far as I'm concerned) to turn off to Leadville, the highest incorporated city in the US at 10,192 feet.

I-70 scene

Welcome to Leadville.

First stop -- ice cream. I had a baby cone of birthday cake! Every ice cream shop should offer this size.

Jett had a cup of chocolate and Paul 2 scoops -- cookie dough and huckleberry.

Found in an art gallery made of bottle caps!

Lots of interesting murals on the buildings.

Dog patiently waiting for some Mexican food.

Made of skis.

Mountain range at a distance.

Our journey from there took us up a winding path to Independence Pass, which just opened May 26.

We were in a valley for a bit.

Twin Lakes, after which the ascent began.

First bank of snow we saw.

Small waterfall.

Almost to the top.

Lots of bikers headed up. We had to carefully pass them.

We made it to the top!

Making sure Roger Taylor Funko got in the shot.

There they both are!

They did not want to leave the snow.

Buried!

How to get down without falling??

No, they did not need his help,

Just slide down on your butt, (which then went numb)

Back to the car, passing all the bikers and motorcyclists.

Boppa making a new friend from Massachusetts. (This is a running joke with the grandkids)

The view across the road.

And we headed down -- as these brave souls headed up!

As we descended, the road occasionally narrowed to one lane. These stop lights were used to make sure only one car at a time used it.

The only "welcome" sign .

As we were walking to lunch, we passed this sculpture.

Our $71 lunch at CP Burgers. A burger, a hot dog, chicken tenders, 2 fries, a small shake, and 2 fountain drinks. And a mandatory 18% gratuity. Welcome to Aspen.

These trees were along the pedestraian mall.

Walking back to the car after doing a little shopping.

Our hotel is a bit older (built in 1970) but very cosy.

Lodgers could use these bikes for free. Paul took advantage.

Jett had their own cosy space.

Dinner at the barbecue place down the street.

Paul and I took a walk down Main street after dinner.

This was on top of our lodge. A nice way to end the day.

Tomorrow we move to Ouray for two nights. Hope to soak in the hot springs and go 4-wheeling through the mountains.