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 bridge 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