~The Coad~
I know of a mountain that, if it could speak, would have unbelievable stories to tell. Standing just 9,298 feet above sea level, this mound of earth beholds a mixture of everything- Aspens, various shrubs, various pines, and rocky terrains. It overlooks Pass Creek trailing along its northern base. It is named after timber cutters- John and Mark Coad, contrary to what my husband's grandfather used to say-simply because travelers find it to be "coad" up there. This mountain, while shorter in stature than others nearby manifests quite a show all throughout the year with changing displays of color and wildlife scattered all throughout its many faces, nooks, and crannies. There are numerous bear dens in such steep and rugged parts that they are nearly impossible to find. Hidden ponds are a safe haven for the wildlife. When you are wandering around in early spring you may come across a beaver walking from the creek through the sage brush or trees on their way to give birth in these secluded areas. Or you may pass the old tree in one of the many aspen groves that still has the cast iron Dutch oven tied to it that has not been used for close to 100 years. If you are lucky enough to ever be at the top the view is amazing. To the West there are wheat fields that checkerboard the landscape. To the North and South two mountain passes that hold so much western beauty. To the East is a ranch where Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid traded horses with the owner as they were riding through. This mountain is smaller than the others but the treasures it hides are far greater than most would ever know.

Lava rock and sandal wood on dark leather with a coconut shell button