Ptarmigan Peak (12,498') offers panoramic views that include Grays and Torreys, Buffalo Mountain, Red Peak and Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The first two miles of the Ptarmigan Trail are immersed in Aspens making this a great Fall hike

Buffalo Mountain (left) and Red Peak (right) remain consistent landmarks throughout the hike

The moon sets behind a lone pine tree near treeline on the Ptarmigan Trail

A Mountain Goat enjoys the last days of summer in the Ptarmigan Peak Wilderness

Aspens are the largest living organisms on Earth - with hundreds of trees sharing the same genetic identity and root system

The trail to the Ptarmigan Peak summit is entirely exposed with virtually no flora aside from alpine tundra

A large cairn marks the broad summit of Ptarmigan Peak - 12,498'

Looking down at a stand of colorful aspens from the Ptarmigan Trail

Longs Peak, the highest in Rocky Mountain National Park is visible from Ptarmigan Peak

Aspen trees are prone to falling down easily due to their shallow root system

Grays and Torreys Peaks - two of Colorado's many 14,000' mountains