Up early enough to enjoy my coffee while watching the sunrise, I knew it was the start of an amazing backpacking day. The Rawah Wilderness is home to numerous alpine lakes, a stunning ridgeline, and a healthy population of moose. On most trips, I spot a moose near one of the many lakes where backpackers can camp. It’s definitely something to watch out for.

One time, I was hiking a trail in the area surrounded by dense willow brush when I turned a corner and found myself just 25 feet from a moose. A magical sight—but also a little spooky with nowhere to hide.

The route continues over Grassy Pass, where cell service can sometimes be caught in the wind. I had told my girlfriend I’d check in if I had a signal, but unfortunately, I didn’t. While hiking over the pass, dark, gloomy clouds hovered overhead, so I didn’t linger at the high point for too long.

In the end, the storm moved through quickly, and the sunshine returned, making for a wonderful and peaceful mid-afternoon. With no moose sightings this time, I continued through the Alpine Lakes area of the Rawah Wilderness before venturing up to the Medicine Bow Trail, which overlooks the Walden Basin. A grand and epic view, the route stayed along the ridgeline for the rest of the day.

Once again, the sunset was magical.