On June 16, 2002 Funhog placed the Shining Star Letterbox near Idaho
Springs, Clear Creek County, Colorado. In the clear, thin Rocky Mountain
air the night sky is a riot of stars but this little star shines brighter
than all the rest. This trek is about three miles roundtrip along the well
maintained Chicago Lakes Trail. In the charming Gold Rush town of Idaho
Springs you can dine on buffalo or soak in an underground hot spring.

To the trailhead: From Denver head west on I-70 to Exit 240. From here head
south fourteen miles on Route 103, the Mount Evans Highway. Just before the
fee station you will find the Chicago Lakes Trailhead on the right side of
the road. Parking is on the left.

To the letterbox: When the Chicago Lakes Trail meets up with the Echo Lake
Trail, it goes left and left again at the next signed junction. From the
far end of the log that crosses the creek walk twenty steps more to a rock
on the left side of the trail. Turn left here and walk fifty steps to where
the letterbox awaits beneath silver wood and golden stone