Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Colorado

Photos & Text by Karissa Barta

Emerald Lake was the first hike I did after moving to Colorado.  I have wandered down so many trails since then, each meaning something different to me.  However, every time I find myself here, I can’t help but smile. It brings back memories of how excited I was the first time I stepped foot on this trail.  It meant I had actually done it.  I had packed up my things, drove 8 hours away from anyone I knew, and ended up in this very spot. I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

Karissa Barta is 22 years old, living and working in Boulder, Colorado.  In her words, she moved to this great state a little over a year ago from Lincoln, Nebraska.  When people ask her why she made the move out there, her reply is simple – the mountains were calling.