by mlz2000 | Dec 5, 2020 | Difficult Hikes, Featured, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Blodgett Peak (9,429′), Front Range
Blodgett Peak is located in Blodgett Peak Open Space along the Rampart Range of the Rocky Mountains. The peak has a small summit that provides unobstructed views in all directions, rising from the eastern edge of the Rockies. The trailhead is situated close to the U.S. Air Force Academy, north of Colorado Springs.
Trail Stats
Blodgett Peak
- Trailhead: Blodgett Peak Trail
- Round trip: 7 miles / 11.3 km
- Elevation: 7,158′ – 9,429′ / 2,182 m – 2,874 m
- County: El Paso
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: Pike
Rock formation above the water tower
Rock formation above the water tower
Trail conditions heading into the valley
Trail conditions heading into the valley
Trail is steep with lots of scree
Trail is steep with lots of scree
View southeast with Cheyenne mountain in the distance
View southeast with Cheyenne mountain in the distance
Heading down to the ridge from Blodgett Peak
Heading down to the ridge from Blodgett Peak
20201205_125039
Blodgett Peak looking south
Pikes Peak in the distance
Pikes Peak in the distance
Summit view east
Summit view east
Summit view to the northwest
Summit view to the northwest
The U.S. Air Force Academy
The U.S. Air Force Academy
A reservoir in the center
A reservoir in the center
Looking back down the route
Looking back down the route
Nearing the ridge from the east
Nearing the ridge from the east
Route up from the east is not recommended – to steep with loose scree
Route up from the east is not recommended – to steep with loose scree
Followed gullies up to the ridge
Followed gullies up to the ridge
Waldo Canyon fire scar
Waldo Canyon fire scar
Another scree filled gully
Another scree filled gully
Very steep – a tough scramble
Very steep – a tough scramble
Very few trees on the steep slope
Very few trees on the steep slope
First objective above
First objective above
A pleasant hike on single track to this point
A pleasant hike on single track to this point
Looking back up the trail
Looking back up the trail
Just a dusting of snow in the shade
Just a dusting of snow in the shade
View from the trailhead (Blodgett Peak behind this hill)
View from the trailhead (Blodgett Peak behind this hill)
The Blodgett Peak trailhead begins in the Blodgett Peak Open Space. Heading out from the parking lot the easiest path to navigate is the closed road, which leads to the water tower.
Take the social trail below the water tower to continue to the peak. The trail will wind into a canyon and begin gaining elevation more quickly. Loose scree and a steep route define this section of the trail.
The social trail leads through the Waldo Canyon wildfire scar, where there is less scree and better footing. Once on the ridge, head to the right (east) to reach the summit. There is a short boulder field scramble to the small summit.
by mlz2000 | Nov 1, 2020 | Dog Friendly, Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Pancake Rocks (11,060′), Front Range
Pancake Rocks Trail shares the trailhead used to reach Horsethief Falls for the first .7 miles. The trail climbs trough heavy forest before leveling out near the two trail junctions. At the second junction you can go straight for a .5 mile trip to Horsethief Falls, or turn right to reach the interesting stacked pancake looking granite formations 2 miles away.
The Crags are also nearby and a great hike to a scenic overlook.
Trail Stats
Pancake Rocks
- Trailhead: Horsethief Park Trail
- Round trip: 7 miles / 11.3 km
- Elevation: 9,680′ – 11,060′ / 2,950 m – 3,371 m
- County: Teller
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: Pike
Near the trailhead
Near the trailhead
Head straight at the first intersection
Head straight at the first intersection
Sentinel Point 12,513
Sentinel Point 12,513
Trail begins with a steep hike
Trail begins with a steep hike
A Gray Jay hanging out
A Gray Jay hanging out
The trail becomes steep again with switchbacks through the forest
The trail becomes steep again with switchbacks through the forest
Well used trail through the forest
Well used trail through the forest
The Crags peaking through
The Crags peaking through
Once on the ridge, good views to the west
Once on the ridge, good views to the west
Pancake rocks around the side of the hill ahead
Pancake rocks around the side of the hill ahead
Climbed rocks nearby to get a northwestern view
Climbed rocks nearby to get a northwestern view
Great views from the rock outcropping
Great views from the rock outcropping
Pancake Rocks looking west
Pancake Rocks looking west
Beautiful views on a bluebird day
Beautiful views on a bluebird day
View to the southeast
View to the southeast
View to the southwest
View to the southwest
The main rock grouping
The main rock grouping
Pancake Rocks
Pancake Rocks
Seating for giants
Seating for giants
A shelter under a large pancake
A shelter under a large pancake
Rock formations near Pancake Rocks
Rock formations near Pancake Rocks
The Crags looking north through the trees
The Crags looking north through the trees
View from the trail to the northwest
View from the trail to the northwest
An excellent trail near the trailhead
An excellent trail near the trailhead
The trail starts on the SE corner of the parking lot. Trail #704 to Horsethief Park begins by climbing steeply into a dense forest. Once the terrain levels out you come across a left turn marked with a ring-the-peak signpost. Say straight at the junction to continue to Horsethief Falls.
There is ample signage at the second trail junction, where you will head to the right (south) up Pancake Rocks Trail. The are many switchbacks and the trail is steep.
Once you gain the ridgeline, the rest of the hike is on easier terrain. The trail winds along the ridge and drops in elevation before reaching Pancake Rocks.
by mlz2000 | Aug 9, 2020 | Difficult Hikes, Featured, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Mt Audubon (13,223′), Front Range
Mt Audubon is the highest peak in the Indian Peaks Wilderness that has an established trail nearly to the summit. It is located in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, about an hour outside of Boulder.
The great 360 degree view from the summit looks out over the mountains of the Indian Peaks Wilderness to the west, Rocky Mountain National Park to the north, and the Front Range and plains to the east. Beautiful alpine lakes like Mitchell and Blue Lake are scattered in the valleys.
Mt Audubon 13,223′
Mt Audubon 13,223′
View near the trailhead looking west
View near the trailhead looking west
View of Mitchell Lake
View of Mitchell Lake
The trail is deceptively rocky
The trail is deceptively rocky
Near treeline
Near treeline
Willows on the left, Bristle cone pines on the right
Willows on the left, Bristle cone pines on the right
View of Mt Audubon looking west on the tundra
View of Mt Audubon looking west on the tundra
Last of the winter snow with reservoirs in the distance
Last of the winter snow with reservoirs in the distance
The trail marked by cairns
The trail marked by cairns
The summit just ahead
The summit just ahead
View of Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park
View of Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park
Views east from the summit with haze from wildfires
Views east from the summit with haze from wildfires
Upper Coney Lake below
Upper Coney Lake below
Paiute Peak 13,088′
Paiute Peak 13,088′
View into the Indian Peaks Wilderness from the summit
View into the Indian Peaks Wilderness from the summit
More summit views
More summit views
View to the southeast of the Front Range
View to the southeast of the Front Range
A false summit ahead
A false summit ahead
On the last 600′ of vertical distance to the summit
On the last 600′ of vertical distance to the summit
3 Ptarmigans along the trail
3 Ptarmigans along the trail
View of the Front Range to the east
View of the Front Range to the east
Just below treeline
Just below treeline
Early morning along the rugged trail
Early morning along the rugged trail
Sunrise along the Beaver Creek trail
Sunrise along the Beaver Creek trail
Just past the trailhead before sunrise
Just past the trailhead before sunrise
View to the northwest from the summit
View to the northwest from the summit
The Beaver Creek Trail enters the Indian Peaks Wilderness and climbs through the trees for 1.7 miles. At the first junction head west (left) onto the Mount Audubon Trail as it heads west.
The Mount Audubon Trail continues climbing above timberline. The trail ends at the saddle where, there is a view down into the Coney Lake drainage. For the final half-mile, and 600 vertical feet, follow the rock cairns up the talus to the summit.
by mlz2000 | Jul 25, 2020 | Dog Friendly, Front Range, Touring, Trip Reports
Shelf Road (9,494′), Fourmile Canyon
Shelf Road Gold Belt Tour National Scenic Byway is a dirt road passable with a 2WD vehicle in good weather. It follows the old stagecoach route between Cripple Creek and Cañon City built in 1892. It twists along Fourmile Creek, with long bands of limestone towering above and below the road.
The Gold Belt Tour was designated by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation as a National Scenic Byway in 2000. It is one of eleven America’s Byways designated in Colorado. Fremont Peak and the Royal Gorge Bridge are located not far from the southern end of the road and are a favorite in the area.
Trail Stats
Shelf Road
- Road: Fremont County Road 9 (also called Red Canyon Road)
- One-way: 23 miles / 37 km
- Elevation: 9,494′ – 5,331′ / 2,894 m – 1,625 m
- Area: Fourmile Canyon
- County: Freemont
- Agency: BLM
A sport climber’s dream, with bolted routes on stable limestone
Rock formations in Red Canyon Park
Rock formations in Red Canyon Park
Shelf Rd turnoff in Cripple Creek
Shelf Rd turnoff in Cripple Creek
Heading south down the canyon
Heading south down the canyon
Fourmile Creek carved the deep canyon Shelf Rd follows
Fourmile Creek carved the deep canyon Shelf Rd follows
View north of Fourmile Creek
View north of Fourmile Creek
Mountain and desert plants along the route
Mountain and desert plants along the route
Well maintained road all the way through
Well maintained road all the way through
Shelf Rd near Cripple Creek
Shelf Rd near Cripple Creek
Winding through the narrow canyon
Winding through the narrow canyon
The Window rock formation near the road
The Window rock formation near the road
Shelf Rd was a very scenic canyon drive
Shelf Rd was a very scenic canyon drive
The Window formation when heading south
The Window formation when heading south
Approximately 23 miles from Cripple Creek to Canon City
Approximately 23 miles from Cripple Creek to Canon City
Shelf Road Gold Belt Tour National Scenic Byway
Shelf Road Gold Belt Tour National Scenic Byway
Old mining retaining wall near Mound City
Old mining retaining wall near Mound City
Cripple Creek, Colorado
Cripple Creek, Colorado
When entering the road in Cripple Creek there is a sign that recommends a 4×4 or a high clearance vehicle. The road, however, is well graded but issues could occur if snow or heavy rains hit the area. Any passenger vehicle can easily drive this road in good weather.
by mlz2000 | Feb 8, 2020 | Dog Friendly, Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Snowshoeing, Trip Reports
Fremont Peak (7,273′), Royal Gorge
Fremont Peak is the high point along a narrow ridge of hills rising near the eastern edge of the Royal Gorge’s north rim. The desert peak is part of a very small sub-range of mountains called the Gorge Hills. These peaks are relatively low and are covered in desert flora. Great views of the Royal Gorge, the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, and Pikes Peak can be seen along the trail and summit.
Don’t miss the Elkhorn Loop Picnic Area and Overlook to get a closer look of the bridge and the Royal Gorge, only a couple minutes drive from the EastRidge Trailhead. Great views just steps from your car, check out the last two pictures.
Summers in this area can be dangerously hot, plan accordingly.
The Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest bridge in the United States. It spans 880 feet across the Arkansas river at a height of 955 feet. Built in 1929, it was the highest bridge in the world until 2001.
Heading back on County Road 3A
Heading back on County Road 3A
Beginning of the hike on County Road 389B
Beginning of the hike on County Road 389B
EastRidge Trailhead
EastRidge Trailhead
View of Fremont Peak from the trail
View of Fremont Peak from the trail
View of Pikes Peak to the north
View of Pikes Peak to the north
View of Fremont Peak summit
View of Fremont Peak summit
Summit view west of the Sangre de Cristo mountains in the distance
Summit view west of the Sangre de Cristo mountains in the distance
View of the Royal Gorge from the summit with the bridge on the right
View of the Royal Gorge from the summit with the bridge on the right
Summit view of the Arkansas River running at the bottom of the Royal Gorge
Summit view of the Arkansas River running at the bottom of the Royal Gorge
Summit view to the north
Summit view to the north
Summit view to the east
Summit view to the east
A large cairn at the summit
A large cairn at the summit
Last push to the summit
Last push to the summit
Looking back along the trail
Looking back along the trail
The steep slope to the summit after leaving the trail
The steep slope to the summit after leaving the trail
The glowing summit straight ahead
The glowing summit straight ahead
The trail after the radio towers
The trail after the radio towers
Cactus blooming in February
Cactus blooming in February
Lots of cactus along the trail
Lots of cactus along the trail
County Road 389B ends at the towers
County Road 389B ends at the towers
The road follows the top of the ridge
The road follows the top of the ridge
Lots of traffic
Lots of traffic
A view into the Royal Gorge from the trail
A view into the Royal Gorge from the trail
The trail winding to the southeast
The trail winding to the southeast
The Royal Gorge looking east
The Royal Gorge looking east
The Royal Gorge bridge crosses 955′ above the Arkansas River
The Royal Gorge bridge crosses 955′ above the Arkansas River
From the Eastridge trailhead head downhill and to the left (heading south) to get on County Road 389B.
Folllow County Road 389B until it ends at the radio towers
From the end of the road, you will see Fremont Peak across a saddle to the southeast. Follow the the trail heading in that direction.
You quickly come across a trail junction with a sign for the Summit trail. Follow the trail towards the peak (southeast).
Once underneath the peak, pick a social path up the steep slope to the summit. There is no maintained trail.
by mlz2000 | Jan 18, 2020 | Dog Friendly, Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountains, Snowshoeing, Trip Reports
The Crags (10,856′), Front Range
The Crags Trail #664 follows Four Mile Creek through deep forests and lush meadows, ending at a rocky dome with unobstructed views in all directions. At the summit of the windswept dome there are views of the Rampart Range, Pikes Peak Mastif, Catamount Reservoirs, and distant mountain ranges to the west and north.
The majority of the Crags trail has a gentle elevation gain, with the first and last half-mile gaining the most elevation.
Trail Stats
The Crags
- Trailhead: The Crags/Devils Playground
- Round trip: 7.3 miles / 11.7 km (winter mileage)
- Elevation: 9,665′ – 10,856′ / 2,946m – 3,309m
- County: El Paso
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: Pike
Road conditions before the closure
Road conditions before the closure
Stay to the right as you approach the trailhead
Stay to the right as you approach the trailhead
Pikes Peak area to the southeast
Pikes Peak area to the southeast
Reservoirs to the east
Reservoirs to the east
Rocky and jagged peaks
Rocky and jagged peaks
Pikes Peak ridge-line
Pikes Peak ridge-line
View back into the valley
View back into the valley
Fantastic views
Fantastic views
Bristle cone pine trees at least hundreds of years old
Bristle cone pine trees at least hundreds of years old
The Crags from the trail
The Crags from the trail
The final section before the rocky summit
The final section before the rocky summit
Following Fourmile Creek east
Following Fourmile Creek east
Footprints, maybe a fox?
Footprints, maybe a fox?
Sunrise along the trail
Sunrise along the trail
The Crags trail forks to the left
The Crags trail forks to the left
The Crags trail starts in dense forest crossing Fourmile Creek
The Crags trail starts in dense forest crossing Fourmile Creek
The Crags trailhead
The Crags trailhead
Sunrise along County Road 62
Sunrise along County Road 62
Winter road closure 1.1 miles from the trailhead
Winter road closure 1.1 miles from the trailhead
Take the clear and well-used path over a bridge and through the forest.
After climbing for 1/2 mile you will see the trail junction with the Devil’s Playground #664A, stay to the left on 664 to The Crags.
Continue following Fourmile Creek northeast through a valley. The trail will be wooded at first, but will eventually open up into a meadow with views of rocky cliffs and the rough western flank of Pikes Peak.
During the last 1/2 mile the trail re-enters the forest and gains elevation as it turns north along a small ridge.
The trail ends on the top of a rocky outcropping with excellent views all around.
by mlz2000 | Aug 31, 2019 | Difficult Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Hallett Peak (12,713′), Front Range
Hallett Peak, viewed from east Rocky Mountain National Park, is distinctive with it’s slanted square structure towering over the landscape. As you near the summit however, the square melts away and you are left looking at a more traditional mountain silhouette. Rising along the Continental Divide, Hallett Peak divides Chaos Canyon to the south and Tyndall Gorge to the north.
The route to the summit first traverses the summit of Flattop Mountain on a well maintained trail. The Arapaho Indians called the Flattop Mountain corridor “The Big Trail”. The trail was formally constructed in 1925, was rehabilitated by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1940, and is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Bear Lake with Hallett Peak in the distance
Bear Lake with Hallett Peak in the distance
The Flattop Mountain trail
The Flattop Mountain trail
Views of Longs Peak and Thatchtop Mountain near treeline
Views of Longs Peak and Thatchtop Mountain near treeline
Emerald Lake below
Emerald Lake below
Views along the Flattop Mountain trail
Views along the Flattop Mountain trail
A marmot blending into the alpine tundra
A marmot blending into the alpine tundra
Hallett Peak (12,713′)
Hallett Peak (12,713′)
Looking east down the Flattop Mountain Trail
Looking east down the Flattop Mountain Trail
20190831_112646
Along the summit of Flattop Mountain
20190831_112633
Hallett Peak from Flattop Mountain
Hallett Peak and Tyndall Glacier
Hallett Peak and Tyndall Glacier
Tyndall Glacier and Tyndall Gorge
Tyndall Glacier and Tyndall Gorge
Grand Lake from the saddle of Hallett Peak
Grand Lake from the saddle of Hallett Peak
View along the Continental Divide
View along the Continental Divide
Hallett Peak summit (12,713′)
Hallett Peak summit (12,713′)
View of Otis and Taylor Peak from the Hallett Peak summit
View of Otis and Taylor Peak from the Hallett Peak summit
Flattop Mountain and Tyndall Glacier
Flattop Mountain and Tyndall Glacier
View of the Hallett Peak ridge from the summit
View of the Hallett Peak ridge from the summit
Flattop Mountain from the summit of Hallett Peak
Flattop Mountain from the summit of Hallett Peak
View of Flattop Mountain from the shoulder of Hallett Peak
View of Flattop Mountain from the shoulder of Hallett Peak
View of Longs Peak from the summit of Hallett Peak
View of Longs Peak from the summit of Hallett Peak
View from the summit of Flattop Mountain (12,324′)
View from the summit of Flattop Mountain (12,324′)
Hallett Peak looks very different up here
Hallett Peak looks very different up here
Nearing the summit of Flattop Mountain
Nearing the summit of Flattop Mountain
Hallett Peak on the left and Flattop Mountain on the right
Hallett Peak on the left and Flattop Mountain on the right
Emerald Lake from the Flattop Mountain trail
Emerald Lake from the Flattop Mountain trail
Hallett Peak summit on right with the tilted square block that is seen from the east side of the park
Hallett Peak summit on right with the tilted square block that is seen from the east side of the park
The Mummy Range to the north
The Mummy Range to the north
Near treeline along the Flattop Mountain trail
Near treeline along the Flattop Mountain trail
Dream Lake with Longs Peak (left of center) and Thatchtop Mountain.
Dream Lake with Longs Peak (left of center) and Thatchtop Mountain.
Dense forest along the Flattop Mtn. trail
Dense forest along the Flattop Mtn. trail
Aspenglow along the trail
Aspenglow along the trail
Sunrise through the dense forest
Sunrise through the dense forest
From Bear Lake take the well maintained Flattop mountain trail to the summit of Flattop Mountain. No maintained trail reaches Hallett Peak, so cross the saddle above Tyndall Glacier and scramble up steep talus to the summit.
by mlz2000 | Apr 20, 2019 | Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountains, Snowshoeing, Trip Reports
Lake Helene (10,630′), Front Range
There is no signage and you must follow a social trail to get to the lake, but despite it’s obscurity, Lake Helene is a spectacular destination inside Rocky Mountain National Park. The lake is situated at treeline, between Flattop Mountain (12,324′) and Notchtop Mountain (12,129′).
Even lesser known Two Rivers Lake is a short walk from Lake Helene, and also worth the visit while in the alpine valley.
Early morning view of Bierstadt Lake from the trail
Early morning view of Bierstadt Lake from the trail
Heading to the Flattop Trail junction above Bear Lake
Heading to the Flattop Trail junction above Bear Lake
Alternating forests and clearings along the Odessa Lake trail
Alternating forests and clearings along the Odessa Lake trail
Notchtop Mountain comes into view
Notchtop Mountain comes into view
Two Rivers Lake and Notchtop Mountain (12,129′)
Two Rivers Lake and Notchtop Mountain (12,129′)
Bear Lake in the early afternoon
Bear Lake in the early afternoon
Bear Lake and Hallett Peak
Bear Lake and Hallett Peak
Incredible views of the Longs Peak area of the park
Incredible views of the Longs Peak area of the park
View of Longs Peak along the trail
View of Longs Peak along the trail
Odessa Lake trail through dense conifer trees
Odessa Lake trail through dense conifer trees
Notchtop Mountain and Lake Helene
Notchtop Mountain and Lake Helene
Notchtop Mountain towers over the valley
Notchtop Mountain towers over the valley
Odessa Lake 640′ below
Odessa Lake 640′ below
Lake Helene beginning to thaw
Lake Helene beginning to thaw
Two Rivers Lake looking east
Two Rivers Lake looking east
Little Matterhorn
Little Matterhorn
A curious Gray Jay
A curious Gray Jay
View of Flattop Mountain
View of Flattop Mountain
Notchtop Mountain summit
Notchtop Mountain summit
Follow the Bear Lake trail for less than 1/2 mile to the Odessa Lake Trail Junction and take the trail to the right. The trail climbs above Bear Lake to the Flattop Mountain trail junction. Continue towards Odessa Lake, climbing through forests and meadows. After approximately 3.5 miles from the trailhead you will see social trails on your left for Lake Helene. The lake is partially concealed from the trail and spurs are fairly easy to miss. If you make a sharp hairpin turn north (right) and begin descending, you’ve passed it.
Two Rivers Lake is near treeline just downstream of Lake Helene. A thick forest and boulder field stand between the main trail and lake, making it easier to walk east from Lake Helene through the forest and meadows.
by mlz2000 | Feb 23, 2019 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Touring, Trip Reports
Garden of the Gods (6,400′) Front Range
Garden of the Gods is a geologically unique 480 acre park, having one of the most complete and complex exposures of earth’s history anywhere in the country. It is popular for hiking, technical rock climbing, biking, and horseback riding. There are more than 15 miles of trails, with a 1.1-mile trail running through the heart of the park, that is paved and wheelchair accessible.
The main trail in the park, Perkins Central Garden Trail, is a paved, wheelchair-accessible 1.1-mile trail. It travels through the heart of the park’s largest and most scenic red rocks! The trail begins at the North Parking lot.
Dedication Plaque reads “Garden of the Gods is given to The City of Colorado Springs in 1909 by the children of Charles Elliott Perkins in fulfillment of his wish that it be kept forever free to the public.”
Cathedral Valley sandstone formations
Cathedral Valley sandstone formations
View of Garden of the Gods with Pikes Peak in the distance
View of Garden of the Gods with Pikes Peak in the distance
Snow on Pikes Peak creating a bright reflection
Snow on Pikes Peak creating a bright reflection
Balanced Rock
Balanced Rock
Steamboat Rock on left and Balanced Rock in the middle
Steamboat Rock on left and Balanced Rock in the middle
Sandstone formations in Cathedral Valley
Sandstone formations in Cathedral Valley
North and South Gateway Rock
North and South Gateway Rock
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
Entrance to Garden of the Gods
Entrance to Garden of the Gods
View north on a snowy February day
View north on a snowy February day
The red rocks and fresh snow create intricate patterns
The red rocks and fresh snow create intricate patterns
Cathedral Valley with a cloud capped Cheyenne Mountain in the distance
Cathedral Valley with a cloud capped Cheyenne Mountain in the distance
Interesting tree/rock formation
Interesting tree/rock formation
Part of the Sleeping Giant formation on the left
Part of the Sleeping Giant formation on the left
The Perkins Central Garden Trail
The Perkins Central Garden Trail
Dedication plaque
Dedication plaque
Kindergarten Rock comprised of white sandstone
Kindergarten Rock comprised of white sandstone
380′ high sandstone formation
380′ high sandstone formation
North Gateway Rock with the Kissing Camels formation creating an arch near the top
North Gateway Rock with the Kissing Camels formation creating an arch near the top
Summertime view of Pikes Peak
Summertime view of Pikes Peak
Fresh snow in Cathedral Valley
Fresh snow in Cathedral Valley
The red sandstone formations in stark contrast to the snow
The red sandstone formations in stark contrast to the snow
Panorama from the visitors center
Panorama from the visitors center
by mlz2000 | Dec 9, 2018 | Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountains, Snowshoeing, Trip Reports
Mills (9,965′) and Jewel (9,990′) Lake, Front Range
Located within Glacier Gorge in Rocky Mountain National Park, Mills and Jewel Lake provide dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. The Longs peak area is prominently visible from the valley. The summer route initially takes you to Alberta Falls, another popular destination in the park.
Mills Lake is named in honor of Enos Mills (1870-1914), who is considered the father of Rocky Mountain National Park.
The view from Mills Lake towards Longs Peak is the image used on one side of the 2006 Colorado State Quarter.
Trail Stats
Mills & Jewel Lake
Longs Peak, Keyboard of the Winds, and Storm Peak
Longs Peak, Keyboard of the Winds, and Storm Peak
Longs Peak 14,259′, right, with the Keyboard of the Winds
Longs Peak 14,259′, right, with the Keyboard of the Winds
Heading back north across Mills lake
Heading back north across Mills lake
View of Keyboard of the Winds and Storm Peak in the blowing snow
View of Keyboard of the Winds and Storm Peak in the blowing snow
Mills Lake with a small cloud over Longs Peak (left)
Mills Lake with a small cloud over Longs Peak (left)
Cove on Mills Lake eastern shore
Cove on Mills Lake eastern shore
Rising above Mills Lake from left to right – Longs Peak, Keyboard of the Winds, Storm Peak, Spearhead, and Chiefs Head Peak.
Rising above Mills Lake from left to right – Longs Peak, Keyboard of the Winds, Storm Peak, Spearhead, and Chiefs Head Peak.
Mills Lake eastern shore
Mills Lake eastern shore
Mills Lake with Storm Peak (left) and Spearhead (right) rising above the blowing snow
Mills Lake with Storm Peak (left) and Spearhead (right) rising above the blowing snow
Mills Lake frozen solid
Mills Lake frozen solid
Looking North across Mills Lake
Looking North across Mills Lake
Looking North from Jewel Lake’s southern shore
Looking North from Jewel Lake’s southern shore
Jewel Lake just ahead
Jewel Lake just ahead
The southern shore of Mills Lake
The southern shore of Mills Lake
View west from Mills Lake
View west from Mills Lake
Eastern side of Glacier Gorge
Eastern side of Glacier Gorge
Glacier Gorge, Rocky Mountain National Park
Glacier Gorge, Rocky Mountain National Park
Mills Lake eastern shore
Mills Lake eastern shore
Mills Lake, Glacier Gorge
Mills Lake, Glacier Gorge
First glimpse into Glacier Gorge
First glimpse into Glacier Gorge
Bristle-cone pine trees
Bristle-cone pine trees
Just above Mills Lake looking into Glacier Gorge
Just above Mills Lake looking into Glacier Gorge
Looking across Glacier Knob
Looking across Glacier Knob
Otis Peak 12,486′
Otis Peak 12,486′
Colorado Quarter
Colorado Quarter
Glacier Gorge trailhead
Glacier Gorge trailhead
Mills Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park
Mills Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park
The winter route was utilized , bypassing Alberta Falls and intersecting with the summer trail about 50 ft from the Loch Trail/Glacier Gorge intersection.
by mlz2000 | Aug 11, 2018 | Difficult Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Crater Lake (10,400′) and Mirror Lake (10,325′), Front Range
Mirror Lake and Crater lake are found deep in the heart of the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Cascade Falls is a popular destination found along the trail. It is about 4.5 miles in and comprises of multiple waterfalls.
The destination, Crater Lake, sits in a large bowl under Mount Achonee (12,469′), Lone Eagle Peak (11,920′) and several unnamed 12,000′ peaks. Peck Glacier and several perennial snowfields can be seen clinging to the steep terrain west of Lone Eagle Peak. This trail is rated as moderate, but if done in a single day the mileage would make this a difficult hike.
The Indian Peaks Wilderness encompasses over 50 lakes 133 miles of trails, with many other beautiful destinations such as Mt Audubon and Mitchell Lake.
Trail Stats
Crater & Mirror Lake
Base of Cascade Falls
Base of Cascade Falls
So many beautiful waterfalls along the trail
So many beautiful waterfalls along the trail
The trail crosses several meadows on the way to Crater Lake
The trail crosses several meadows on the way to Crater Lake
Trail along Monarch Lake
Trail along Monarch Lake
Trail cutting through pine, aspen, and spruce forest
Trail cutting through pine, aspen, and spruce forest
Views from the north bank of Monarch Lake
Views from the north bank of Monarch Lake
Monarch Lake from the trailhead
Monarch Lake from the trailhead
Monarch Lake Trailhead
Monarch Lake Trailhead
Base of Cascade Falls
Base of Cascade Falls
Peak 11,893′ coming into view on the right
Peak 11,893′ coming into view on the right
Wildflowers along the trail
Wildflowers along the trail
One of many creek crossings
One of many creek crossings
Mt Achonee (12,649′) towering above Mirror Lake
Mt Achonee (12,649′) towering above Mirror Lake
Lone Eagle Peak with Peck Glacier in the background
Lone Eagle Peak with Peck Glacier in the background
View of Crater Lake basin
View of Crater Lake basin
View of imposing mountains from Crater Lake
View of imposing mountains from Crater Lake
Crater Lake with Mt Achonee
Crater Lake with Mt Achonee
View east from Crater Lake
View east from Crater Lake
View above Crater Lake
View above Crater Lake
View of Lone Eagle Peak
View of Lone Eagle Peak
Morning light on a waterfall
Morning light on a waterfall
Lone Eagle Peak towering over Mirror Lake
Lone Eagle Peak towering over Mirror Lake
Lone Eagle Peak towering over Mirror Lake
Lone Eagle Peak towering over Mirror Lake
View of Lone Eagle Peak
View of Lone Eagle Peak
Jagged peaks in the Indian Peaks Wilderness
Jagged peaks in the Indian Peaks Wilderness
A beautiful day for a hike
A beautiful day for a hike
Beautiful Lone Eagle Peak (11,920′) in the distance
Beautiful Lone Eagle Peak (11,920′) in the distance
Narrow point in the Cascade trail
Narrow point in the Cascade trail
Peak 11,893′ (left) and Peak 11,535′ (right)
Peak 11,893′ (left) and Peak 11,535′ (right)
Shoshoni Peak (12,600′)
Shoshoni Peak (12,600′)
One of the many waterfalls along the trail
One of the many waterfalls along the trail
A moose in the thick underbrush
A moose in the thick underbrush
The top of a waterfall
The top of a waterfall
Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls
Afternoon light on Monarch Lake
Afternoon light on Monarch Lake
The trail begins along the west shore of Monarch Lake. The trail is level as it follows the northern shore of the lake. There are occasional switchbacks as the trail follows Buchanan Creek through pine, aspen, and spruce forests. There are several waterfalls along Buchanan Creek and later along Cascade Creek, including Cascade Falls.
There are two trail junctions, both of which are clearly marked. At ~3.5 miles stay right on the Cascade Trail at the junction for Buchanan Pass Trail. At the junction ~6.5 miles, stay right to head toward Crater Lake. The trail to the left continues to Pawnee Pass Trail. After a short climb you’ll come to an open meadow with a large boulder field on the left-hand side. The trail crosses a large flat rock bed and is marked by 5-6 cairns. After following the cairns back onto the clearly defined trail, several steep switchbacks take you up to the basin.
The trail appears to end at Mirror Lake as you walk around the side (right) of the lake, but the trail picks up on the west side of Mirror Lake and takes you to Crater Lake, a very short distance.
by mlz2000 | Nov 26, 2017 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Almagre Mountain (12,360′), Front Range
Almagre Mountain (Mt Baldy) is the only other peak, besides Pikes Peak, above treeline when viewed from Colorado Springs. Located in the Pike National Forest just south of Pikes Peak, this hike is rated easy, but getting there can be a challenge. In order to drive to the closed gate on FSR 379A you will need to navigate a moderate 4X4 shelf road. The reward is unobstructed views from the summit area, with exceptional views of Pikes Peak and the cog railroad.
Nearby Mt Rosa and Cheyenne Mountain are also excellent hikes in the area.
Trail Stats
Almagre Mountain
- Trailhead: Gate on FS379A
- Round trip: 2.5 miles / 4 km
- Elevation: 11,815′ – 12,360′ / 3,601 m – 3,767 m
- County: El Paso
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: Pike
Repeater on Almagre Mountain
Repeater on Almagre Mountain
View of Colorado Springs
View of Colorado Springs
The gate marks the beginning of the hike
The gate marks the beginning of the hike
Dangerous 4X4 section
Dangerous 4X4 section
Road near the gate
Road near the gate
View of Mt Rosa
View of Mt Rosa
Cliff band on Almagre Mountain
Cliff band on Almagre Mountain
View of the Sawatch Range
View of the Sawatch Range
Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the highest cog railway train in the world (14,114′)
Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the highest cog railway train in the world (14,114′)
View of Pikes Peak
View of Pikes Peak
A lone tree along the summit
A lone tree along the summit
From the left to right: Pikes Peak, North Almagre Mountain
From the left to right: Pikes Peak, North Almagre Mountain
Great views along the easy trail
Great views along the easy trail
Looking down the trail on Almagre Mountain
Looking down the trail on Almagre Mountain
Heading northwest on the closed road
Heading northwest on the closed road
A shelter in Almagre Mountain’s basin
A shelter in Almagre Mountain’s basin
Looking east along the closed road
Looking east along the closed road
From Old Stage Road, turn onto Forest Service Road 379, which goes to Frosty’s Park. You should have a high clearance vehicle to proceed the last 1.5 miles up the road to Frosty’s Park as of this writing. FSR 379A will be to the right further up and immediately begins climbing more steeply than FSR 379. If you do not have a 4X4 high clearance vehicle you will want to park at the intersection.
by mlz2000 | Oct 28, 2017 | Dog Friendly, Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Mt Rosa (11,500′), Front Range
Mt Rosa is located in the Pike National Forest just south of Pikes Peak and is the only cone shaped summit in the area. This provides rare unobstructed 360 degree views from it’s small but lofty summit, one mile above Colorado Springs.
From it’s summit you can see Rosemount Reservoir, Pikes Peak, Almagre Mountain, Cheyenne Mountain, and the Sangre de Cristo mountain range to the southwest.
The mountain was named for Rose Kingsley, an aristocratic young English woman who lived in Colorado Springs and started its first library. She was an avid hiker, and earned the nickname Rosa del Mont, or Rose of the Mount.
Trail Stats
Mt Rosa
- Destination: Mt Rosa
- Trailhead: Trail 672
- Round trip: 5 miles / 8 km
- Elevation: 10,370 – 11,500 / 3,161 m – 3,505 m
- County: El Paso
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: Pike
View from Gold Camp Rd
View from Gold Camp Rd
Low level crossing this time of year
Low level crossing this time of year
Road in pretty good condition
Road in pretty good condition
Drive from the trailhead
Drive from the trailhead
Cheyenne Mountain from Mt Rosa
Cheyenne Mountain from Mt Rosa
Summit view of Cheyenne Mountain
Summit view of Cheyenne Mountain
Summit view of Rosemont Resevouir
Summit view of Rosemont Resevouir
Summit view southeast
Summit view southeast
Pike Peak in the background, with Almagre Mountain in the foreground
Pike Peak in the background, with Almagre Mountain in the foreground
Very old Bristlecone Pine
Very old Bristlecone Pine
trail heading up from the ridge
trail heading up from the ridge
Almagre Mountain
Almagre Mountain
Trail with Mt Rosa in the background
Trail with Mt Rosa in the background
Mt Rosa from the ridge
Mt Rosa from the ridge
View of Cheyenne Mountain from the ridge
View of Cheyenne Mountain from the ridge
Well defined trail
Well defined trail
Trail leading out of the valley
Trail leading out of the valley
Views slowly open up
Views slowly open up
Heading into a valley
Heading into a valley
View of Mt Rosa
View of Mt Rosa
Mt Rosa trail
Mt Rosa trail
Rosemont Resevouir
Rosemont Resevouir
From Old Stage Road, turn onto Forest Service Road 379, which goes to Frosty’s Park. You MUST have a high clearance vehicle to proceed the last 1.5 miles up the road to Frosty’s Park. After the meadow turn right and hike along Trail No. 672, also known as Nelson’s Trail, for less than 2 miles. Turn right on Trail No. 673, which pushes steeply up .75 miles to the small rocky summit.
by mlz2000 | Sep 15, 2017 | Dog Friendly, Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Mitchell and Blue Lake (11,360′), Front Range
Mitchell and Blue Lake are located in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, west of Boulder, Colorado. Brainard Lake itself is a small lake at the junction of two major valleys in the east central Indian Peaks Wilderness. The northern of the two valleys holds Mitchell and Blue Lakes, while the southern valley holds Long Lake and Lake Isabelle.
Mt Audubon (13,223′) is another example of the beautiful trails located in the park.
Trail Stats
Mitchell & Blue Lake
- Trailhead: Mitchell Lake Trailhead
- Round trip: Mitchell Lake 2 mile/ 3.2 km (10,650′)
- Blue Lake 6 miles / 9.7 km
- Elevation: 10,525′-11,360′ / 3,208 m – 3,462 m
- County: Boulder
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: Roosevelt
- Nat’l Wilderness: Indian Peaks
Brainard State Park
Brainard State Park
Mitchell Lake and part of Mt Audubon
Mitchell Lake and part of Mt Audubon
Blue Lake looking east
Blue Lake looking east
Blue Lake and Pawnee Peak
Blue Lake and Pawnee Peak
Waterfall below Mt Toll
Waterfall below Mt Toll
Mt Toll and Blue Lake
Mt Toll and Blue Lake
Up to Blue Lake
Up to Blue Lake
Heading up an alpine shelf
Heading up an alpine shelf
Blue Lake trail near tree-line
Blue Lake trail near tree-line
First view of Mt Toll
First view of Mt Toll
One of many small ponds
One of many small ponds
View of Mitchell Lake along the trail
View of Mitchell Lake along the trail
Mitchell Lake trail
Mitchell Lake trail
Beautiful clouds along with relentless wind
Beautiful clouds along with relentless wind
Longs Peak in the far distance
Longs Peak in the far distance
Mt Audubon trail above tree-line
Mt Audubon trail above tree-line
View of Mitchell Lake
View of Mitchell Lake
Winding through old Bristlecone Pines
Winding through old Bristlecone Pines
Early morning on the trail
Early morning on the trail
Mt Audubon trail
Mt Audubon trail
Tried the Mt Audubon trail first, but wind would be to strong to summit Mt Audubon
Tried the Mt Audubon trail first, but wind would be to strong to summit Mt Audubon
Blue Lake and Mt Toll
Blue Lake and Mt Toll
Panorama of Blue Lake
Panorama of Blue Lake
The wooded trail enters the Indian Peaks Wilderness near the Mitchell Creek bridge. It continues to Mitchell Lake, crossing a second bridge over the inlet. From the lake you can see Mt Audubon across the water. Another 2 miles of trail climb more steeply, following the creek into an open valley to Blue Lake. This lake lies at tree line below Mount Toll, a cone-shaped pinnacle on the Continental Divide.
by mlz2000 | Jun 3, 2017 | Difficult Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Cheyenne Mountain (9,565′), Front Range
Cheyenne Mountain’s is a triple peak mountain with the geological summit on the southwestern portion of the mountain. In 2017 there were no trails to the summit, so it was necessary to navigate most of the way without a trail through the Pike National Forest. In late 2018, Cheyenne Mountain State Park completed the Talon/Dixon 15.6 mile trail to the summit.
Pikes Peak, Almagre Mountain, and Mt Rosa are nearby neighbors that are also worth a visit while in the area.
Trail Stats
Cheyenne Mountain
The mountain serves as a host for military, communications, recreational, and residential functions. The underground operations center for the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) was built during the Cold War to monitor North American airspace for missile launches and military aircraft. Built deep within the granite, it was designed to withstand bombing and fallout from a nuclear war. Many of its functions were transferred to Peterson Air Force Base in 2006.
View of the Broadmoor
View of the Broadmoor
Aspen grove near the summit
Aspen grove near the summit
A rare clearing
A rare clearing
View of beginning of hike
View of beginning of hike
Cheyenne Mountain geological summit
Cheyenne Mountain geological summit
Lots of small Aspens on the summit
Lots of small Aspens on the summit
Looking north
Looking north
Summit view from Cheyenne Mountain
Summit view from Cheyenne Mountain
Looking south from the summit
Looking south from the summit
Summit marker has seen better days
Summit marker has seen better days
Cheyenne Mountain summit
Cheyenne Mountain summit
Near the summit
Near the summit
Looking NW towards Pikes Peak
Looking NW towards Pikes Peak
Steep in places
Steep in places
Dense forest with only a few clearings
Dense forest with only a few clearings
No obvious trail at the beginning
No obvious trail at the beginning
Well maintained road
Well maintained road
The most direct route begins alongside Old Stage Road. Old Stage road/368 climbs up a valley along the west side of Cheyenne Mountain from Colorado Springs. There is a turnout for about 3 cars across the street from where the trek starts (see pictures and Directions). Once across the street the most direct path to the summit is to head east-northeast until the summit ridge where you will turn north-northeast.
After climbing a fairly steep section after the road, things flatten out as you traverse the ridge of a smaller hill. There is a faint trail heading to the northeast along this section, follow it. 50 feet before the end of the faint trail head east and down a shallow gully before heading up to the summit ridge. There is very deep forest and brush in this section, so look for the path of least resistance. This sections gets steeper as you near the summit ridge.
Once on the summit ridge you will see the true summit to the north-northeast. Cross one more shallow gully before heading up to the summit.
by mlz2000 | Jan 7, 2017 | Featured, Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountains, Snowshoeing, Trip Reports
Lake Haiyaha (10,244′), Front Range
Lake Haiyaha his a secluded, boulder-riddled lake in lower Chaos Canyon. Hallett Peak (12,713′) and Otis Peak (12,486′) tower over Lake Haiyaha on the Continental Divide, making for spectacular scenery. Bouldering is a popular activity around the rocky lake.
Easy trail to Nymph Lake
Easy trail to Nymph Lake
Male elk also nearby
Male elk also nearby
White tailed deer near the coyotes
White tailed deer near the coyotes
Coyote near Nymph Lake
Coyote near Nymph Lake
Coyote stayed behind to keep eye on me
Coyote stayed behind to keep eye on me
Waiting for the pack
Waiting for the pack
Pack of Coyotes near Nymph Lake
Pack of Coyotes near Nymph Lake
Turn off for Lake Haiyaha
Turn off for Lake Haiyaha
Looking into Chaos Canyon
Looking into Chaos Canyon
Lake Haiyaha just ahead
Lake Haiyaha just ahead
First view of Chaos Canyon
First view of Chaos Canyon
View of Longs Peak and Thatchtop Mountain
View of Longs Peak and Thatchtop Mountain
Dream Lake in the morning
Dream Lake in the morning
Nymph Lake from above
Nymph Lake from above
Nymph Lake with Longs Peak in the background
Nymph Lake with Longs Peak in the background
Large crack in the ice
Large crack in the ice
View of Hallett Peak and Lake Haiyaha
View of Hallett Peak and Lake Haiyaha
Frozen Lake Haiyaha
Frozen Lake Haiyaha
Dream Lake on the way back
Dream Lake on the way back
Panorama of Lake Haiyaha
Panorama of Lake Haiyaha
The trail begins alongside Bear Lake and climbs westward towards Tyndall Gorge, passing Nymph Lake along the way. Past Nymph Lake the trails climbs again to Dream Lake.
Once there, the trail moves up a southward slope into the Chaos Canyon drainage and arrives at Lake Haiyaha, located at timberline along Chaos Creek. The lake and Chaos Canyon are known for excellent bouldering.
by mlz2000 | Oct 14, 2016 | Dog Friendly, Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Mt Herman (9,104′), Front Range
Mt Herman is the highest point on the Palmer Divide, just west of Monument, Colorado. It lies along the Rampart Range of the Front Range, between Denver and Colorado Springs. The area is popular for hiking and mountain biking, paragliding, and 4×4 trails heading west. Look for marker 716 on Mt Herman Rd to find the trailhead.
Other mountain trails in the area include Cheyenne Mountain, Mt Rosa, Almagre Mountain, and Pikes Peak.
Trail Stats
Mt Herman
- Trailhead: Trail 716 along Mt Herman Rd
- Round trip: 2.2 miles / 3.5 km
- Elevation: 8,063′ – 9,063′ / 2,458 m – 2,762 m
- County: El Paso
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
Summit register
Summit register
Mt Herman summit
Mt Herman summit
Near the summit
Near the summit
View east from the ridge
View east from the ridge
Cairns mark the way near the top
Cairns mark the way near the top
A break in the dense forest
A break in the dense forest
When in doubt go up
When in doubt go up
Trail to the summit
Trail to the summit
Marker 716 is the trailhead
Marker 716 is the trailhead
Mt Herman from Monument Rock
Mt Herman from Monument Rock
Narrow rock feature
Narrow rock feature
Monument Rock
Monument Rock
Monument Rock from the summit
Monument Rock from the summit
Summit view east
Summit view east
Approaching Monument Rock
Approaching Monument Rock
Summit view of Pikes Peak
Summit view of Pikes Peak
Pond in Mt Herman Park
Pond in Mt Herman Park
Panorama of the Palmer Divide
Panorama of the Palmer Divide
The trailhead is at a small parking area on a switchback on Mt. Herman Road. The trail begins along the the right side of a small creek, climbing gradually. Quickly you arrive at an unmarked junction and follow the trail on the far right.
The trail will begin to steepen immediately. There are sections as you head up where the trail is hard to follow, so when in doubt, head up. The summit will be on your left once along the ridge. The are lots of cairns along the last section of the trail.
by mlz2000 | Sep 10, 2016 | 14er's, Difficult Hikes, Featured, Front Range, Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Longs Peak (14,255′), Front Range
Iconic Longs Peak (14,259′) is the highest mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park, and the northern most 14,000′ peak in the Rocky Mountains.
The peak is guarded by granite cliffs and does require Class 3 climbing, although the first 6.5 miles before the Keyhole are Class 2. Stepping through the Keyhole is an exhilarating experience, with thousand foot drop offs and endless views.
