darren_kilgore

That's funny, Art!

By the way, as I mentioned furhther up, you can view my pics of the tough portion of the trail and my write-up as well. Here's the direct link:

http://mycolorado.org/trails2.html#Schofield

(I still need to figure out how to make hyperlinks here)

"1) Steve mentioned that there is more than one way in. Can you confirm and does it require a 4X4?"

As Art said, there are 2 ways. The easiest is from the Marble side which is off of Hwy 133 at the base of McClure Pass south of Carbondale. There is a well marked sign to Marble. It is 7 miles east to Marble and an additional 6 to the mill which is right below Crystal. You can drive to Marble via a car and a little past Beaver Lake as well. After this, a 4x4 is recommended.

The other way is from Crested Butte over Schofield Pass. The pass itself is passable in a car and a little ways below it. You will need 4WD if you plan to continue. It's stories are much worse than it actually is though, trust me. I'll give anyone a ride if I'm in the area when you are!

"2) I'm guessing this is an afternoon shot and that if the sun sets any lower, it will disappear behind a mountain."

This was definitely an afternoon shot and has already gone behind a mountain as you can make out the shadow below the mill and in the trees to the left. I am very surprised that the shadow area is as soft as it is with little contrast. In the summer, the pool below starts to get shaded at 4:15. Not sure how much earlier it would have been taken on this September or October image.

You're right on, Mike. Yes, the image is great, but the description is plagerism. I knew when I was reading that, that it was taken from Marble's site. I would think us artists could be a little more creative in these things. In addition, the "mill" was never used for hydroelectric power, but I digress. I don't mean to be a bad seed though.

I do love the old FJ's and the Crystal Mill is one of my favorite areas. The road to the mill is relatively easy and could probably be driven by some cars, though I would not suggest it. Since Bobby obviously has not driven the shelf road above the Devil's Punchbowl, let me add that it is hardly difficult. Death was the price for those not having the experience or knowledge of what they were getting in to. Take your time, and you'll be fine providing you like that kind of stuff as I do.

I have some pictures of the trail and a similar one of the mill in the spring (the scans pale in comparison to the slides though as they usually do) for what it's worth. Again, I like the picture and I like one of the Sneffels Range on your site, Bobby. That is my favorite place. Nice job.

http://mycolorado.org/