Sometimes when I travel and hike in the Rocky Mountains, I am in awe of
how people used to live in and cross these peaks. Without the modern conveniences that we take for granted, how hard that must
have been. This hike up to Rollins Pass was one of those times.
Before the Moffat Tunnel was built, over 7 miles long crossing under the Continental Divide, the steam locomotives took travelers
over Rollins Pass – 11,660 ft. In fact. The first recorded use of Rollins Pass was by a wagon train in 1862. Wow – talk about
taking a walk through history.
On top of the Needles Eye Tunnel were several stone structures - remnants of buildings from an earlier age. One can only imagine how
they must have kept warm without our modern conveniences. However, standing in the doorway, looking out at the valley and the
mountains immediately took all those thoughts away. This is a phenomenal vista!
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