Drive to See the Pretty Aspen Trees

We took this little trip Monday when I noticed the sun was shining and it was such a beautiful day so unexpectedly I came down with a fake I have to go home early disease. I don't usually get those and this was a perfect day for one.

I decided to split this up into more than one post. We took so many pictures you'd be sightseeing all day and I know you have things to do!!! Plus other places to visit too!

I love all the gold and orange amongst the green. Before we continue I thought you would like to learn some fun facts about the Aspen Trees. This article was actually in the paper the other day so I'm not really that smart.

So what makes an aspen leaf "quake"?

Aspens, like other poplars, have flat as opposed to round petioles, the part of the leaf that connects the main body of the leaf to its branch. These flattened petioles allow for more movements.

Why does an aspen leaf shimmer?

The leaf of an aspen is actually two colors; the top is a dark green, while the down-facing side is a lighter shade. When the leaves quake, they turn over and over at a quick rate, making it appear as if the leaves are shimmering light and dark.

Why do I never see an aspen growing alone?

Aspens grow in colonies. Each aspen in a grove is connected to the others by a complex root system, making one large organism that shoots up various stocks. Some colonies are so large that they are among the largest single living organisms in the world.

I thought the facts were really interesting. I didn't realize they were connected to each other. And now for some more beauty!

This poor old shed looked so forlorn out there all by itself. We couldn't resist taking the picture.
We left Denver and headed for Idaho Springs and took the Mt Evans turn off. We went to Echo lake which you will see later and over the pass to Bergen Park. It was a beautiful afternoon and a beautiful drive.