Mt. Shavano and Tabeguache Peak - Colorado Sawatch Range 14ers

Click below for the link to this epic hike found on one of my other blogs!

http://crushing14ers.blogspot.com/2014/06/shav-and-tab.html

Castleton Tower

Spectacular views driving up 128 outside of Moab towards the Castle Valley turnoff.

Climber's campground!

About a 1hr slog uphill to the base of the route.

Base of the North Chimney (5.8)

Summit! Two rope stretching (70m) rappels down the face ahead.

'Inca Pool (Ollantaytambo)

Follow directions for the 'Inti Punku' hike I describe in an earlier blog post. Basically, cross the Inca Bridge outside of Ollanta and then turn right. After about a quarter mile you should look for a small trail turn off on your right. There is no sign and I would recommend going with somebody who has been there before as otherwise you will not be able to find it. 

We had been to Machu Picchu the day before and were quite sore. We wanted to do a hike that was both relatively flat and simple but would also give us a chance to stretch our legs and recuperate in a beautiful location. The 'Inca Pool' was exactly what we were looking for. Fed by pristine water carried via Secia from the tops of the Andes this pristine pool is maintained by locals and boasts impressive views of the valley below and Nevado Veronica above (not pictured due to overcast skies, but on a clear day it would be visible in this shot).

The water quite literally took my breath away! A clear and deep pool. So refreshing.

Inti Punku or 'Sun Gate' (Machu Picchu)

Machu Picchu Mountain

Inti Punku or 'Sun Gate' (Ollantaytambo)

Pinkuylluna Ruins (Ollantaytambo)