Birds, Mountains, Lake...

Early Saturday morning, I left my car in the parking lot and walked toward the lake. Just a few yards down the trail, I was greeted by a small group of house sparrows wandering about. The tiny birds were perched in the middle of a large bush, chatting to one another. It was such a pleasant encounter, they instantly lifted my mood.

 

I didn't expect much from this hike, but I always love walking there. Mirror-like water and mountains in the background... Such beautiful views. And of course, plenty of geese in the foreground ;) No surprise here :)

The trees are still bare (even though this February has been incredibly warm, it’s still winter, after all). The mountain slopes remain snow-covered, creating a stunning contrast with the deep blue water of the Barr Lake.

Further along the trail, I came across a small group of red-winged blackbirds and paused for a moment to say hello. I’m not quite sure what they replied, though :(

I continued walking, admiring the silhouettes of the trees and the mountains. It was such a pleasure just to take it all in.

And the sky! Zebra-like stripes stretched across it, almost perfectly painted.

There’s a favorite perch for bald eagles near the shore. This time, to my disappointment, it was empty. Maybe next time I’ll have better luck.

- Where were you? I waited and waited and waited...

- Do you care? 

- Sure I do! Where WERE you?

- None of your business! I was shopping!

- Do you mean buying things you don't need? Again?

- Calm down, will yah? I didn't spend a dime.

- Alright, alright… I didn’t mean to upset you. I was just worried.

I couldn’t help but smile while listening to their bickering and admiring the view. The mountains and reflections... Quiet and peaceful. It was simply beautiful!

On my way back, I turned around to look at the gazebo where I had been just a few minutes ago. Built right over the water, it offers a great view of the bald eagle perches and nests. But not this time. That morning I didn’t spot any exciting birds - no eagles, harriers, or kestrels… just geese and blackbirds ;)

Near the visitor center, I encountered a small family of deer. I’m not sure what they find to eat there after such a snowless winter, but they certainly didn’t look hungry.

Before leaving the park and heading out for lunch, I took one last look at the lake and the mountains. I may not have had much luck with birds that day, but it was still a wonderful hike. And really, what more do you need?

Photos taken on February 22, 2026.