What do you do when your kids are gone and you are by yourself? Well, you go hiking of course.

That is exactly what I did. My kids were gone for the day hanging out with their aunt so I decided to hit the trails. I explored the Lower Monument Canyon Trailhead because this one I had yet to travel.

The full length of this trail is about 7 miles from start to finish. I didn't have a lot of time to explore the whole trail so I was only able to do about 1.5 miles before I had to turn back.

There are so many cool things along this trail. Especially all of the living organisms. The black moss looking stuff is actually a slow-growing cyanobacterium. The cool thing about it is it helps stop erosion. So when you see those signs that tell you not to walk off the trail then you probably shouldn't.

I never get to hike alone so I was able to go at my own pace and see all that nature had to offer.

If you haven't gone on this trail I suggest that you do. It is also home to snakes and other wildlife so be careful where you walk. You wouldn't want someone walking into your house and walking all over everything, would you?

Respect the land and the land will respect you! Be sure to wear the proper attire like a hat and maybe some jeans. It will keep you guarded against a horrible sunburn like I received.

Just be careful of your surroundings and remember to have some fun!

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