It was to be an atmospheric weekend, loping along the Venable-Comanche loop in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of southern Colorado.

We had an enjoyable, scenic walk up the Venable valley, but as we neared Venable Lake, stormy weather surrounded us.

We quickly discovered that the most sheltered camp near the lake was also home to overly curious marmots and a bunny. It required convincing dissuasion to keep them away from our salt-enriched belongings. They found our pole handles and backpack straps particularly enticing.

Sunrise was misty and magical. We headed uphill towards the Phantom Terrace.

True to its name, the Phantom Terrace disappears into its rocky surrounds. There are a few tantalizing seeps along the way.

We chose to wait out the stormy afternoon at Comanche Lake and were rewarded with bright morning light the following day.

It was a perfect time to climb Comanche Peak at 13,200 feet. We had views to peaks and valleys on both sides of the montain range.

Summer flowers added to the beauty of the landscape.

As did the lakes, tarns and flowing creeks.

And all too soon, the day of our departure dawned.