#9: See the Sunrise from the Flatirons

For you non-Colorado folk, the Flatirons are rock formations on the western border of Boulder, CO. Three years ago on Memorial Day we hiked up a trail called Royal Arch, and about 4/5 the way up Nick's pants ripped, pretty hardcore! We thought it was best that we turn around and go home. It was lovely, but slightly anti-climatic.

This year we decided to try again, and began the day by waking up at 4:30am! We got dressed and grabbed food/water, and drove to NCAR to begin our hike. It took us about 2 hours to make it all the way up, but here are some sights along the way:

Once we finally got to the top...

That's Royal Arch. I am soooo glad there was an actual arch. I didn't know if there would be one or not.

...we were able to enjoy the spoils of our journey. Mine was dried pineapple.

We also were able to share some of our spoils with a new friend...

Okay, seriously, whatever conditioner this gal is using she should keep using it. Look at that shine!

...or two! Proudly introducing Gertrude and Helga. Chipmunks who live at high elevation on dangerously high ledges deserve dangerously tough names!

I also decided I would be a chipmunk if I could be any animal, because then I could be agile and have my own TV series!

As a safety warning for all you folks, this hike is not for the faint of heart! Look how high up we were!

Now, our legs are sore, our selves are tired, and we couldn't be happier about the experience!

I know this isn't a terribly flattering picture of Nicholas, but it's not my fault he concentrates way too hard to push the shutter button! Honestly, this was the best close up we got!