Alright guys, I'm going to be honest and say that Mount Garfield was quite a challenge for me last week, so for this week's edition of "up a mountain, down a beer," I went for a much easier hike. Devil's Kitchen is one of the most popular trails on the Monument. Its short distance makes it easily accessible to hikers of all skill levels and ages, but it also has an epic payoff at the end. It only took me about 15 minutes to get to the "kitchen" part of the trail, a rock structure that is hollow in the middle. Once I climbed up to it and walked in, there are several holes around the sides that revealed stunning views—perfect for sitting with a nice beer in one hand and a camera in the other. The wind was not nearly as gusty as the top of Garfield but there was still a nice little breeze that made my growler sound like it was whistling. It was a very relaxing moment.
I've done this hike several times over the years, but only a few times have I walked past the "kitchen" to see what is behind it. Today I did (after a little beer break) and I highly recommend it. There are several little slots to walk through and an amazing view of the entire valley, thanks to its higher vantage point. The hike is still short and fairly easy, but it is an excellent example of the landscape the Monument has to offer for those not wishing to seek a challenge. Kids love it too because the "kitchen" is almost like a big stone playground.
DEVIL'S KITCHEN in a nutshell:
Distance: 1.5 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 387 feet
Difficulty rating: Easy
Dog-friendly/Family-friendly: No/Absolutely!
As for the beer, I decided to feature Kannah Creek Brewing this week. It is another well-established brewery in Grand Junction and a nice light Helles lager sounded excellent for the 100-degree heat—and I also couldn't pass up a good pun by having a helles-style lager on the Devil's Kitchen trail. The only brewery in the valley that currently has cans or bottles is Palisade, so this week I was carrying a growler with me instead. I must say, I am very glad I didn't have to bring a growler up Mount Garfield. That extra weight would not have done me any favors.
Helles beers are the lightest style of German lagers and are very easy to drink. It has a very subtle hop bitterness but is overall quite smooth with a nice, light aroma. Lagers are usually not my favorite style as I tend to lean toward the hoppy IPAs and the big stouts, but I do think that after hiking even a short distance in the afternoon heat, it was extremely refreshing.
KANNAH HELLES in a nutshell:
IBU: 20
ABV: 5%
Tasting Notes: Light in both aroma and body, subtle hoppy bitterness but with a smooth finish.
Kannah Creek also has a restaurant attached to the brewery, and it's worth a visit if you head to town after your hike! It's a small establishment with a nice patio out front and a very warm, local feel. They have some excellent shareable appetizers and some unique pizzas. Try the Jalapeño Popper pizza or the Belly Up if you're not watching your figure. You won't be disappointed.