Mountain Oasis

The trail to the peak was a long and arduous climb Which skirted a pristine glacial lake about midway. Shimmering below, it offered a cooling balm for the heat And a picturesque spot to rest and refuel for a while. A short down-climb led to a high cliff that overhung the depths Of aquamarine waters; crystal clear, revealing a rocky bottom. Chartreuse lichen grew from the wetted rock face While damsel flies of cerulean hue darted to and fro. In the shade of a small oak we were content to eat our lunch. From our vantage we watched the cutthroat trout feed; Rising to a caddis hatch. Splashes of watermelon, coral and saffron Under their jawlines divulged the source of their strange name. Fronting the shore, a spacious open meadow served as a refuge. A doe and twin fawns lay surrounded by tall grass and wild flowers. Tangerine bells, snow-white lupine, and purple daisies with lemon eyes In hues of lavender and lilac covered the park in waves. After a short dip in the icy waters, we took a few moments to gather our things And reflect on the beauty and grandeur of this unknown retreat. Truly we were blessed, our bodies, minds and souls rejuvenated As we climbed the slope to continue our trek to the snow-capped peak. 8/1/2017 Free Verse 6th Place Seasonal Color Contest Sponsor: Dale Gregory Cozart