Editor’s note: Each of these columbine adventures takes you to remote places, on roads that can be impassable at times or require high clearance. Please don’t take unnecessary chances when conditions are poor. Park in a safe spot and walk if necessary. Also remember that there will be little or no cell phone service available. Enjoy the solitude!


Story and photographs by Debi Boucher


F


Columbines decorate Yankee Boy Basin near Ouray.


EnCompass May/June 2012 33


rom dry and


rocky scree, to cool and moist woodlands, Colorado’s state fl ower thrives in a variety of habi- tats from June through August. You might fi nd col- umbine growing in full sun from between rocks above timberline, or in moist soil deep within the shade of an aspen grove. Some locations are easy to get to, some require a bit of an adventur- ous spirit, and all are worth every click of the shutter.


Here are seven of my favor- ite locations, in six different National Forests around the state.


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