Christmas Eve Snowshoeing on the Mesa

[IntrepidXJ]

Christmas Eve | Saturday, December 24, 2011

Since Amanda had to work this morning, I decided to head up on the Grand Mesa to do a little snowshoeing. I bought a new pair of snowshoes and some new poles a few months back and wanted to try them out. Since I was testing out new gear and only had a few hours I decided to head back to the West Bench Trail since I'm familiar with it.

I also only took my iPhone on this short hike instead of dragging along my DSLR, so if my photos don't look up to my usual standards, you know why...

Here's my new MSR Evo Tour snowshoes ready for their first hike.


New Snowshoes by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr

The first bridge I crossed.


Snow Bridge by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr

The snow wasn't quite as high as the last time I was here. Last January the snow almost completely covered this sign.


Stop by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr

Another bridge and a sign pointing the way.


West Bench Trail by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr

Following the trail across a dam.


On a Dam by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr

A typical scene along the West Bench.


Winter Wonderland by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr


Lone Tree by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr

Sitting down for a short rest.


Resting by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr


Snow & Trees by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr


Grand Mesa View by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr

Leaving the Grand Mesa on my way back home.


Leaving Grand Mesa by IntrepidXJ, on Flickr

 

[Nick]

That looks really nice. I almost busted out my split this weekend but the unpredictable angles my ankle might end up in scared me out of it. Next year..

 

[IntrepidXJ]

This was the only trip I got out so far this season....I was hoping to get out more, but things just haven't worked out.

 

[Yvonne]

What a nice trail.
Originally I wanted to buy myself a pair of the MSR Evo snowshoes, but with the lack of winter and especially snow I haven't done it. Maybe next season.
How satisfied are you with them? Do you have the floating tails as well?
This winter really sucks, I was out only twice. So hopefully next winter again.

 

[IntrepidXJ]

Well, so far this is the only trip I have used them. I had no issues, but would want to try them out some more before I can really say how well I like them. This trail was packed, and I didn't have the tails at the time, but I have since picked up a set of 6" tails on sale for when I need them.

What a nice trail.
Originally I wanted to buy myself a pair of the MSR Evo snowshoes, but with the lack of winter and especially snow I haven't done it. Maybe next season.
How satisfied are you with them? Do you have the floating tails as well?
This winter really sucks, I was out only twice. So hopefully next winter again.