Again, I marveled at the fact that the park sits only $2 and 45 minutes from our house. It's our western backyard. For the overnight we decided on a popular hike that begins at a spot along the road called “Tres Cruces.” Those who have seen a park map (or just know the place) may understand our trek as “the 4 to the 7;” taking trail 4 south from Tres Cruces until you hit Trail 7 and then heading west on the old Inca trail to its end spot on the road.
After checking out the cruces we decided to clamor up a grassy hill to a nearby observation tower to start our hike. From there we saw a clear chain of blue glacial lakes that shone in deep contrast to the muted yellows and tans of the grassy pàramo. The lakes lined up perfectly with our maps, and gave a reassuring preview what the day's hike had in store for us.
One of the beauties of our hike from Tres Cruces was the fact that the cruise along the chain of lakes was almost exclusively downhill. It's a rare occasion to have an all-day downhill backpack, and Lynsey and I did not take it for granted.
Setbacks and comebacks, this trip to the park had it all. And so I urge you all to get out there and have your own adventure into the unknown, whatever that may be - just watch your step!