Woods Lake

Woods Lake is a perfect spot high up in the mountains.
see all photos »

I found a perfect spot today.  A lake rimmed by mountains, fir trees along its shore, their dark green branches and the bright blue sky reflected in the clear lake water.  My canine companions loved the area, its trails apparently pleasantly scented for dog hikers.

To be fair, I did not "find" this lake, the State of Colorado and the National Forest Service both found it long ago.  But I was the only person there on a brilliant sunny afternoon in July, so I had it all to myself.

Uncompahgre National Forest

Sam and OV enjoying the lake
see all photos »

Woods Lake is located high up in the Uncompahgre National Forest, at the end of a well-maintained road (two-wheel drive ok) off Colorado Route 145 near Placerville.  From the lake are several trails, ranging from an easy walk around the lake to trails up to the area's several 13000 and 14000-foot (4267 m) mountain peaks.