Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Twin Sisters Hike with the GLS

Join GLS for a hike to the top of the Twin Sisters on Sunday, July 18. These gentle damsels rise to an airy 11,430 feet, and provide superb views of Estes Park and the dramatic east face of Long's Peak. This all-day hike is rated moderate to advanced due to its 7.4 mile round trip distance and 2340 feet of elevation gain. Please bring clothing layers, sturdy shoes, sun protection, water, snacks, and lunch. Adding trekking poles can provide useful support on some of the loose scree and rocks on the well-used trail. Contact Avi at avi.purkayastha@gmail.com or Phil at bringyour4k@msn.com to sign up and be sure to leave a phone number where you can be reached.

Things to do in Denver when you're gay: High Plains Vista Hike with GLS

Join GLS on an after work stroll through the wide open prairie on Boulder's new High Plains Vista trail on Thursday, April 29.

This five-mile round trip journey traverses hill and dale with spectacular views of the Flatirons. Under a wide, welcoming sky, the GLS will look for the lonesome coyote, the Meadowlark, and the ubiquitous mountain biker.

This trail is very rocky in places but it gains its 300 feet of elevation very gradually and is therefore suited to the novice hiker. There is no need to pre-register for this outing, just show up at the trailhead on HWY 128 and be ready to hike at 6 p.m.

Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Cherry Creek Bike Ride with GLS

Join the GLS for an easy bike ride to start the season. The Gay and Lesbian Sierrans will meet at Confluence Park in Denver (near REI) on Sunday, April 18 and take the Cherry Creek Bike path down to Washington Park, go around the lakes, then head back downtown for an afternoon snack. The total distance is ten miles on mostly flat bike path so anyone should be able to do this ride, even if you have to bring the old Huffy out of the attic. For details, call Galen at 303-809-0413.

Get out and about with the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans

The Gay and Lesbian Sierrans (GLS) will welcome spring on Saturday, April 10 with a hike through South Boulder Meadows.

The leisurely, four-mile round trip hike offers spectacular views of the Flatirons and foothills between Golden and Boulder. Contact Bill at 303-530-3482 to sign up. Limited to 10 hikers.

Out and about with the GLS

Grab your skis and join GLS for this cross country outing to Mayflower Gulch, a perennial favorite in Summit County. Begin on a forested trail that opens onto the wide-open, snowy fields of the gulch, where you will encounter remnants of the old Boston Mine, and spectacular views of the peaks of the Tenmile Range.

Although the trail itself is fairly easy, plan on a moderate difficulty excursion due to the elevation. Bring lunch, snacks, water, sun protection, and appropriate clothing layers and gear. Skins for your skis are definitely recommended, although more experienced skiers may not find them necessary. Plan on a full day, especially as traffic and weather conditions in Summit County are notoriously unpredictable. Group limited to 10 participants. To sign up or get more information contact John Krotchko at jkjfk@earthlink.net.

Photo from Colorado-Lifestyle blog.

Go snowshoeing this Valentines Day

Join the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans for an easy-to-moderate snowshoe or snow hike on Feb 14 at historic Caribou Ranch, near Nederland. The trail is packed snow with some small portions of bare ground or ice. So either snow shoes or yak trax is appropriate footwear. The locale is in a beautiful setting and you will see open meadows and old mining sites. This outing will be half day and is good for beginners and people who want to enjoy a nice, social trip. Please bring outer layers (it can get windy), sun protection, water, and food for lunch. Contact Phil at bringyour4k@msn.com to sign up.

Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Get out and about with the GLS

Are you a Sierra Club and a GLS member yet? If not, consider becoming both a Sierra Club member and a member of GLS. Your Sierra Club membership support allows the Club to continue its important work in battling the barrage of threats to the environment that have been coming from Washington.

The GLS is a special GLBT interest section within the Sierra Club with lots of amazing recreational opportunities here in Colorado like this weekend's trip to check out Vail Ski Week.

Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Cross-country skiing at Devil's Thumb Ranch

Spend a day with the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans cross-country skiing at Devil’s Thumb Ranch just north of Winter Park and Fraser, Colorado.

This is fairly level terrain, great for beginning and first-time skiers. There is an $18 day-use fee and ski equipment can be rented at their Nordic Center. Check out the website at www.devilsthumbranch.com for more information and contact Tom at tarrison@usa.net or 303-832-3430 to RSVP.

Get out on the trail with the GLS

Join the GLS on Sunday, January 17 for a breathtaking snowshoe at Mayflower Gulch in Summit Co. This trail has some of the most spectacular views available in Colorado. The first part of the trail begins at 11,000 feet and gains 500 feet over two miles to arrive at some cabins which are part of the old Boston Mine.

For more information or to sign up contact Elaine at 303-819-6749.

Get out and about with the Rocky Mountain Gay and Lesbian Sierrans

Join GLS for the first snowshoe outing of the winter season as the group visits beautiful Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The scenery is breathtaking, and so is the crisp winter air. Start the winter season with an easy 3.6-mile trip having an elevation gain of 600 feet but be prepared for cold and windy weather even this early in the season. Limited to 12 participants you will need to contact Bill at 303-530-3482 to sign up.

Photo from ProTrails.com.

Get out and about with the GLS

Join the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans for a pleasant walk around a Boulder natural area. Walden Ponds started life as a gravel pit, but now it is a series of ponds and grassy areas just east of town and is a stopping spot for water birds and wild life of all kinds. This will be an easy afternoon hike of not more then two miles and the group will be walking on level, well maintained paths with no elevation gain. Please bring some water and, since November weather is impossible to predict, bring clothing appropriate for the day of the hike. To join, call Galen at 303-809-0413.

Photographic outing with the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans

Join Lady S and the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans on a bird-a-licious photographic outing to Barr Lake State Park Sunday 24 October. Barr Lake is home to dozens of local and migratory bird species. The group will wander the trails, walk the boardwalks, and possibly board the "Eagle Express" trolley, all in hopes of capturing our avian brethren on film. Bring a telephoto lens and binoculars. A tripod might also be advantageous. Total walking distance will depend upon where the birds are and the group's desires. Expect a minimum of three miles. Barr Lake is flat, so tennis shoes should be fine. Since this is October, be prepared for changing weather. There is a per car fee to enter the park. If interested contact Lady S at snottysly@yahoo.com. Must provide a phone number to get on the roster.

Gay and Lesbian Sierrans Annual Potluck this weekend

Join the GLS for their annual potluck this Saturday, September 26. Whether you’re new to GLS or you’ve been involved for years, this is a great opportunity to gather and meet and see all the great people involved with this organization. The group willl have a grill going and water, soda, plates, and silverware will be provided. Just bring a dish to share and something to grill, if you want. This event is a very casual, outdoor setting but outing leaders will be there to answer any questions you might have about the group or upcoming hikes and events.

RSVP or direct any questions to Bill at wilroe@mindspring.com and directions will be provided.

Labor Day Weekend excursions with the GLS

Saturday, September 5th, 2009
Chief Mountain Hike
Clear Creek County, Colorado

Join GLS on Saturday, September 5 for an invigorating hike up Chief Mountain near Mt. Evans. This hike allows you to get some hiking in and be back early enough for other activities of the day. The trail climbs steadily through forest, meadow, and tundra to the rocky summit at 11,709 feet, The last stretch of the trail offers an overlook of the Bear Creek Basin, including Mt. Evans, Mt. Goliath, and Rogers and Roslin Peaks. The hike is three miles round trip, elevation gain is 1,000 feet. Because the trail ascends 1,000 feet in only 1.5 miles, the rating is moderate. Bring water, lunch and snacks, warm layers, rain jacket, sun screen. A hiking pole is helpful for the descent. Remember that it can get windy at the top. If you would like to join, contact Sue at slknight625@msn.com. Leave a phone number to get on the list. Limited to 12 hikers.

Sunday, September 6th, 2009
Black Lake Hike
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Join GLS for a classic hike to Black Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Black Lake, at 10,620 feet, nestles in a dramatic bowl. Towering above are the Spearhead, McHenry's Peak, the Keyboard of the Winds, and Long's Peak. The lake's stark and somber setting lies in contrast to the verdant forests and lakes below and skein of water ways en route - Mills Lake, Jewel Lake, Glacier Creek, and Ribbon Falls. This hike is rated moderate for its 9.4 miles total distance and 1390 feet of elevation gain. Please bring clothing layers, sun protection, water, snacks, and lunch. To sign up, contact Phil at bringyour4k@msn.com or Elaine at ejfut@msn.com. Please provide a phone number when requesting a spot on the roster.

Monday, September 7th, 2009 (Labor Day)
Tour of the Trees in Fairmount Cemetery
Denver, Colorado

Fairmount Cemetery in east Denver is a grand place to hang out. It is full of great statuary and history, beautiful gardens, magnificent trees, and quiet space. It’s a good place for a walk or a bike detour. The group will meet there in the morning to walk the “Trail of Trees”, following a guidebook and its descriptions, and encountering a variety of huge oak trees, a Kentucky coffeetree, a sycamore, some maples, a yellow buckeye and many more.Bring your tree books and camera. Following,
the group will join for breakfast/lunch at a nearby restaurant. Email Tom at: tarrison@usa.net or call 303-832-3430.

Upcoming hikes with the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans

Saturday, August 29th, 2009
Reynolds Park Hike
Jefferson County, Colorado

Join the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans on Saturday 29 August for a hike in the beautiful and typically un-crowded Reynolds Park. These are hiker-only trails. The park trails offer diverse scenery including high desert, forest and riparian environments and scenic views of the Rockies. Along the way the group will stop for lunch and great views at Eagle’s View. The trail is moderate with a couple of steep grades and an overall elevation gain of 1340 feet. The hike will take about four hours at a moderate pace with lunch. Limited to 12. Be sure to bring head protection, sunscreen, rain gear, lunch, and two liters of water. Contact Chris at cglor@comcast.net to RSVP and provide an email address and phone number.

Sunday, August 30th, 2009
Denver Bike Trails Loop
Denver, Colorado

Join GLS on Sunday, August 30th for a bike tour of everything that Denver has to offer--from the wildlife of Cherry Creek to the SunCore oil refinery. This 45 mile loop will start at Confluence Park, then arc north around Globeville and Sand Creek before it follows the Highline Canal and Toll Gate Creek down to Cherry Creek Reservoir. After lunch, Cherry Creek will take you back to the start.

This ride is ideal for a “city bike” or a hybrid with wider tires because it includes about eight miles of unpaved trail. Don't bring your Italian racing bike with ultra skinny tires, but a sturdy road bike is fine. You’ll also want a comfortably worn seat, bike shorts and either clipless pedals or ones with straps. Also, bring a spare inner tube because this trail has “goatheads” that puncture tubes. As always, bring the essentials: a helmet, sunglasses, sunscreen, plenty of water and lunch.

This trip is limited to 10 riders. For details, call Galen at 303 809 0413.

July hikes with the GLS

Join the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans on July 19 for a hike to Silver Dollar and Murray Lakes. Starting from Guanella Pass Road, this hike follows a good trail on a steady climb through evergreen forest, small meadows, and past timberline to Silver Dollar Lake at the base of dramatic cliffs. The group will continue on a steeper climb up to Murray Lake at 12,120 feet and stop there for
lunch before returning on the same trail. This is a moderate hike at 5.5 miles round trip and cumulative elevation gain of 1,400 feet. Bring at least one liter of water, lunch, rain gear, sun protection, etc. This outing is limited to 12 participants. For more information and to sign up, contact Kate at kavadenver@yahoo.com.


On July 23, the GLS will take a mid-week outing to commune with thousand year-old bristlecone pines. The outing will start with a moderate three-mile hike on the Pesman Trail which wanders through a stand of bristlecones in the Mt. Goliath Nature Area. Towards the end, the trail transitions into open tundra with expansive views of the Mt. Evan's Wilderness. While only packing 649 feet of elevation gain, this trail does begin at 11,503 feet, so altitude will be an issue and participants should have a moderate level of fitness. If interested, contact Lady S at snottysly@yahoo.com.

Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Join the GLS

Are you a Sierra Club and a GLS member yet? If not, consider becoming both a Sierra Club member and a member of GLS. Your Sierra Club membership support allows the Club to continue its important work in battling the barrage of threats to the environment that have been coming from Washington. By becoming a GLS member, you will allow our group to fund its conservation work projects (such as Capitol Peak). Once you become both a Sierra Club and GLS member, you will be able to vote on GLS' leadership.

To become a Sierra Club member, just go to the Sierra Club and select the "Join" button on the right.

Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Weekend hikes with the GLS

Saturday, April 25th, 2009
Deer Creek Hike
Denver, Colorado

Join Elaine and Chris for a hike in a foothills location at the southwest edge of the metro area offering diverse environments and scenic views of the hogbacks. The group will follow the Plymouth Mountain trail and interesting tributary trails in a total 6-mile loop. Overall, the elevation gain is 910 feet and the hike will take about three hours total at a social pace with a few stops to enjoy the views. There are a few places with loose rocks to walk over. Please bring water, a hat, sunscreen, and decent walking shoes. Hiking boots are not required. This outing is limited to 12 people. If interested contact Chris at cglor@comcast.net and provide a contact phone number.


Sunday, April 26th, 2009
Hall Ranch Hike
Lyons, Colorado

Join GLS for an early season hike at the beautiful Hall Ranch Open Space in northern Boulder county. Located just west of Lyons, Hall Ranch consists of over 3,000 protected acres at the interface of the plains and the mountains. The group will hike about 5 miles, starting at a fairly low elevation of 5,500 feet and climbing about 1,000 feet with superb views all along the way. Bring water, lunch, sunscreen. sturdy shoes, and be sure to dress in layers. Limited to 12 participants. Contact Mike at liketorun@yahoo.com to sign up or for more information.

IMAX with the GLS

Join the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans' Galen for a midweek night out tonight to see the newest IMAX film, 'Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk'. Shana Watahomigie, a Havasui Indian guide, leads an expedition down the Colorado River while he, Robert Kennedy Jr. and author Wade Davis talk about the canyon, the river and the nature and importance of water. The movie is at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science on Colorado Blvd. It starts at five and will last about forty minutes, so there will be plenty of time for dinner at a local restaurant afterward for anyone who is interested. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased here.

Celebrate Earth Day with the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans

Interested in an Earth Day work project with Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado? Earth Day takes place April 22 but the day of the project will be April 18.

VOC does dozens of projects to help the environment: building trail, pulling noxious weeds and restoring habitat. Their web site describes this years Earth Day event:

Celebrate Earth Day with VOC and High Plains Environmental Center (HPEC)! HPEC provides a unique place where natural and built habitats can coexist in a sustainable fashion – a “suburbitat!” Located just east of Loveland off of Interstate 25 in Centerra, HPEC is a tranquil refuge for wildlife and area residents alike. HPEC serves as a community learning center, a place for ecological restoration and natural reminder of the high plains ecosystem that once existed all along the Front Range. During this one-day event, your volunteer efforts will enhance a 270-acre open-space oasis of riparian habitat, ponds and grasslands in the midst of suburban development. We’ll plant 1000 native trees and shrubs including cottonwood, choke cherry, and willows. Seedlings will be nurtured through the summer with an existing drip irrigation system, ensuring their survival to maturity. Your efforts will be an important step in the re-creation of a place which promotes learning, recreation, and a sense of stewardship for the local landscape.

The work day will last from 7:30 to 4:00 and VOC expects 400 volunteers. Jennifer is organizing a group of up to 15 GLSs to join with the VOC for this project. If you are interested, contact Jennifer at jwhitton@gmail.com or 720-278-9188 for the full details and meeting places.