Stands of Aspen. Nirvana—especially for desert dwellers. However, the moment is fleeting—so make sure you plan well. Usually, Dave and I would have had our fill of fall in Alberta. Alas, 2020 has changed so many things. Thankfully, the beauty of fall is attainable only two hours from home.

For aspen viewing, we ambitiously decided to hike Locket Meadow’s Inner Basin Trail at sunrise.

I must say we are getting pretty good at getting up early. Four a.m. departures have become the norm (only when necessary): just us and the semis heading up the hill.

The last few miles to Lockett Meadow require cautious navigation. The road is not maintained—and it shows. Fall traffic has taken its toll—a massive hole towards the end of the route will stymie most vehicles. 

The small parking lot stood relatively empty as we bundled up to hike. It was refreshing cold, and we were excited to be wearing long pants instead of hiking shorts. 

I’m not going to lie—our first impression as we headed out was—Damn, we’re too late! Most of the aspens were bare, and scads of leaves covered the ground like yellow snow. Crap. Do we finish the hike or turn around? We decided to keep going—after all, getting here took more than a little effort. 

Hallelujah. A burst of color came into view about half-way, as we trekked up the switchbacks. The sunrise cast a golden glow over everything it touched. It was quite magical.

The hike to the basin was about four miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 757 ft. Moderate and gradual elevation made the trip seem effortless. 

Four factors determine the brilliance and intensity of aspen: temperature, moisture, sunlight, and altitude. We surmised that the wetter and warmer western side of the mountain might have better color. We headed to Snowbowl Ski Resort (where Arizona skis) for a comparison.

Bingo. Aspens on steroids. The chair-lift was booked solid, and cars filled every available parking space. A color bonanza with all cameras pointed skyward. 

Our day was golden.