Camp at the first Dry Lake.

Continuing with our exploration of the peaks and valleys of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, we headed up to another new area, Dry Lakes and Horn Peak, 13,450 ft.

A large part of the motivation to get outside for the weekend was the fact that it was actually our 5th wedding anniversary and we wanted to do something fun. Since the fifth is traditionally celebrated with wood, we figured a camping and climbing getaway in a quiet place where we could build a big fire (and burn a lot of wood) would be perfect.

Compared to other Sangre backpacks, the hike up Dry Lakes Creek was pretty easy. It’s less than 4 miles to the upper basin where there are four lakes, and if you’re wondering, none of them are actually dry.

We set up a quick camp above the first lake and then began the trail-less climb up to the ridge of Horn Peak. The weather was perfect, dry and warm for a change, and after reaching the summit and reflecting on 14 years of adventuring together, Christy and I headed back down to camp.

It was time to start collecting some wood.

Hiking up from camp.

On the ridge to Horn, Fluted Peak is at the head of the valley in the distance.

It was two years ago that we were on Fluted Peak and caught our first glimpse of the lakes, with Horn Peak out to the left. It’s no wonder we wanted to put this place on our list.

Little Horn Peak is out across the valley. Our camp was at the lake below.

The southern Sangres.

The eager birder among us was ready with the binoculars.

Six sorted piles of wood seemed like a lot, but we went through it all. Happy anniversary Christy!