Twenty-nine TrailBlazers headed for Mt. Magazine State Park on a cold, cloudy day that did not quite match up to the overly optimistic prognostications of our crack forecasters. Nevertheless, things really started looking up as we drove up the mountain and saw beautiful fall color everywhere, even if the leaves were not illuminated by sunshine. The Visitors Center was shrouded in fog, but it was nice and warm inside as we waited for the cars to be shuttled. 

With Captain Katie leading the charge we bucked some stiff wind as we headed out from the Visitors Center to trek down the Will Apple Trail. After crossing the horse camp to reach the Bear Hollow Trail, we saw less fog and many hues of orange, red and gold along the trail as well as a panoramic view of the fall-decked valley from the overlook. There were a couple of rare breaks in the clouds that momentarily bathed the colorful trees with sunlight. We had lunch at a favorite overlook where we managed to shelter against the wind as we ate and enjoyed the view. 

Saving the best for last, we again crossed the road to pick up the East Loop of the Benefield Trail where there was a spectacular panoramic view of trees in fall dress, ponds and lakes, and a beautiful bluff line. We trekked carefully along the edge of this high rim trail where our eyes were treated to one sensational view after another. We have hiked this area many times, but it must have been before autumn color, after leaf fall, or in spring because we could not recall ever seeing it quite like this. Of course, the sun came out and the skies brightened as we drove down the mountain and headed home. Beautiful day!