Shrine Mountain

I recently started a thread asking 14ers.com members for "Easy but rewarding" hikes, and this one popped up. It's between Breckenridge and Vail, about 30 minutes from Breck. It's not a 14er, the mountain itself is unimpressive; but it has some nice views.

Shrine Mountain
11,894' - Part of Wingle Ridge
4.2 miles RT
~700' Elevation gain

Directions: Exit 190 on I-70; Drive 2 miles on Shrine Pass road (dirt) to the trailhead/parking lot, on your left with some pit toilets. The trail heads down and left at a gate before slowly climbing to the Wingle Ridge saddle. Head left for Wingle Ridge, right for Shrine Mountain.

The view at the beginning. This is the Tenmile Range- Peak 10, Crystal, Pacific, Atlantic, Fletcher, and Quandary

I think this baby carrier needs to be adjusted...

Mount of the Holy Cross

Same picture, but in color

I really wanted to play on the rocks, but not with Alex on my back

US Geological Survey marker. Shrine Mountain is just a prominent point on Wingle Ridge

Alex is thrilled to be on his first mountain summit!

The elusive Gore Range

Looking back to Wingle Ridge

Panorama of the Gore Range

It looked like a storm was moving in, so I decided it be good to get down ASAP in case it started to rain or lightning. I didn't take any pictures on the way down, but it's easy to make good time.

Mt of the Holy Cross, Elbert and Massive in one Panorama (although Elbert is hard to see)

Overall I am happy I chose to do this "easy" hike with my son. Special thanks to his Aunt Rachel for accompanying me to the "summit".