Sentinel Point

Sentinel Point
August 27, 2023

Sentinel Point, 12,527' is a sub point on the west side of Pikes Peak. It is essentially a large pile of rocks that sits above tree line but is a beautiful hike and has good summit views. After hiking 1,300 steps on the Manitou Incline just yesterday, Hazel was excited to get outside again and hopefully see some animals along the trail. I suggested we head to Sentinel Point as it is fun hiking through the meadow and I was hopeful that we would see some deer or other wildlife. I also thought Hazel could hike a good portion of the lower part and would enjoy the time with her parents. 

We enjoyed the hike and Hazel wore her alien glasses from Grandpa

When we arrived at the trailhead, Hazel asked to be carried in her backpack, and after some argument, I gave in and carried her up the first mile of steep trail from the trailhead. When we cutoff toward Horsethief park and the trail flattened out Hazel was happy to hike on her own. As Laura, Hazel and I hiked across the beautiful meadow, we looked across the valley and saw a coyote scampering just below the trees. Hazel was excited and kept on walking and looking for more animals. We soon encountered a worm on the trail. Blasting out with laughter, Hazel was excited to see more things and talked about how he was so cute! Hazel had walked almost 2 miles by this time and Laura and I were happy to have her hiking on her own as she is quite heavy to be carrying long distances any longer. 

Justin says Hazel didn't learn that from him (wiping her nose on her sleeve).  Also, this is the only picture I have of Hazel hiking on her own on this specific trip so I had to include it.

As the trail entered the forest and the terrain began to steepen, Hazel pushed on. She hiked a total of 4 miles and 1,000' of elevation gain. Laura and I were proud and again, perhaps easier this time, gave in to her requests to be carried in her backpack again. We were soon exiting tree line and making our way toward the rocky scramble and the summit of Sentinel Point. 

Views of Sentinel Point through the trees as we get closer

Great views of Pikes Peak and Devils Playground

Clouds built and rain was imminent as we summited and snapped a few happy photos. The three of us were soon headed down, but this time Hazel rode with Laura and I got to take it easy. 

High-Five Dad!

The summit is very blocky

We raced the rain and encountered a light rain after putting Hazel's rain jacket on exiting the forest once again nearing horsethief park. We successfully made it back to the trailhead and car totaling a round trip of 5 hours 10 minutes. Note to Hazel - when you're old enough and are reading this blog - we're counting this as a big summit for you since you did so awesome and we love you to the moon and back!

We were happy despite a little bit of rain.