Mesa Cortina-South Willow Falls Hike

I chose the Mesa Cortina hike because it was just 5 miles round trip and the elevation gain was only 600+ feet. We had the choice of continuing on to South Willow Falls, but that would mean double the length and another 600 foot elevation gain. I also chose the hike because the description said that you hike through aspen stands, which I love, and along South Willow Creek. A beautiful stand of aspen with the sun peaking through.

I tried shutter priority on my camera to get this effect on the water. After we arrived at this spot along the creek which was about the 3 mile mark, we felt so good that we decided to tackle the hike on up to South Willow Falls despite its' elevation gain. After we went about one mile out of our way, we returned to the correct trail and made the additional 3 mile trek to the falls.

The waterfall was refreshingly cool and a gorgeous site.

This was the view from the falls, part of the Gore Range.

Steve is approaching the aspen groves as we hike the 5 miles back to the trailhead.

The view of Lake Dillon and Keystone ski area in the background. Our legs were very tired after the 11 mile hike. The trailhead and our car were a welcome site.