Some days in the valley the sun just begs me to hike rather than to ski.  This week I thought the Mesa might be too crowded due to Spring Break so I headed to the Colorado National Monument.   Lil Bit was more than happy.  In the spring it is cool enough for both of us to hike the lower loops to our hearts content.  The Independence Trail is a favorite.  We don't have to drive the switch backs to the top, just park at the bottom and hike a fairly gentle grade through the fantastic rock formations to the "Big One".   Sometime a few brave souls will be scaling the sides and sitting on the top.  It's a technical climb, not for me.   There was no one on top for our hike.  Probably too early in the season.  It's still a bit wet.  The red of the rocks against the bluest of Colorado skies is incredible.  Bits of green are just showing in the crevices.  So many travelers miss this little spot.  The drive over the top is spectacular, but nothing can compare with actually walking through the formations and realizing you are walking beneath the layers that hold dinasaur footprints.  Ages old, making me feel oh so young, insignificant, but significant for being here and beholding all that is around me.