Bierstadt Lake (9,470′), Front Range

Bierstadt Lake (9,470′), Front Range

by | Apr 24, 2022 | Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountains, Snowshoeing, Trip Reports

Bierstadt Lake (9,470′), Front Range

Bierstadt Lake sits atop a forested moraine, which is a ridge composed of material left behind thousands of years ago by receding glaciers. The lake was formed when a dam was made from glacial debris deposits. Water from the lake drains into Mill Creek within the Mill Creek basin, a flat valley with a scenic meadow.

The lake’s east end provides the best look at the Continental Divide, with standouts such as Otis Peak (12,486′), Hallet Peak (12,713′), Flattop Mountain (12,324′), Ptarmigan Point (12,363′) and Notchtop Mountain (12,129′).

Trail Stats

Bierstadt Lake
Elevation Map Pancake Rocks

Weather

GPX with Elevation

Trail Pictures

Bear Lake Rd below winding it's way to Glacier Gorge

Bear Lake Rd below winding it’s way to Glacier Gorge

Bear Lake Rd below winding it’s way to Glacier Gorge

View west from the switchback trail

View west from the switchback trail

View west from the switchback trail

View of Mt Meeker, Longs Peak, and Thatchtop Mountain

View of Mt Meeker, Longs Peak, and Thatchtop Mountain

View of Mt Meeker, Longs Peak, and Thatchtop Mountain

View of the Continental Divide from the trail

View of the Continental Divide from the trail

View of the Continental Divide from the trail

View to the east from the trail

View to the east from the trail

View to the east from the trail

Northeastern view of Bierstadt Lake

Northeastern view of Bierstadt Lake

Northeastern view of Bierstadt Lake

Notchtop Mountain in the center

Notchtop Mountain in the center

Notchtop Mountain in the center

View northwest from the lake

View northwest from the lake

View northwest from the lake

Spring melt has started

Spring melt has started

Spring melt has started

Snowy Otis Peak, Hallet Peak, and Flattop Mountain

20220424_120759

Snowy Otis Peak, Hallet Peak, and Flattop Mountain

Bierstadt Lake surrounded by a heavy forest

Bierstadt Lake surrounded by a heavy forest

Bierstadt Lake surrounded by a heavy forest

The forest surrounding Bierstadt Lake

The forest surrounding Bierstadt Lake

The forest surrounding Bierstadt Lake

View of Longs Peak from Bierstadt Lake

View of Longs Peak from Bierstadt Lake

View of Longs Peak from Bierstadt Lake

Lunch with a view

Lunch with a view

Lunch with a view

Shoreline of Bierstadt Lake

Shoreline of Bierstadt Lake

Shoreline of Bierstadt Lake

Chipmunk investigating the intruder

Chipmunk investigating the intruder

Chipmunk investigating the intruder

Chipmunks are common in the park

Chipmunks are common in the park

Chipmunks are common in the park

View along the northern shoreline

View along the northern shoreline

View along the northern shoreline

On top of the moraine heading to Bierstadt Lake

On top of the moraine heading to Bierstadt Lake

On top of the moraine heading to Bierstadt Lake

Deep snow in the woods in late April

Deep snow in the woods in late April

Deep snow in the woods in late April

Grreat views west along the Bierstadt trail

Grreat views west along the Bierstadt trail

Grreat views west along the Bierstadt trail

Found along the trail

Found along the trail

Found along the trail

Video Tour

Trail Directions

An uphill 1.4-mile (2.3 km) trail with switchbacks that begins at the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead. A 0.6-mile (0.97 km) trail encircles the subalpine lake, which has a sandy beach along the eastern portion, offering the most spectacular views.

Most of the elevation gain occurs in the first three-quarters of a mile. You enter a pine forest which turns to sage with unobstructed views as you gain elevation. At the top of the moraine the trail transitions back into a dense forest again. The trail gets relatively flat as you continue to the lake.

Trailhead Directions

Mt Sniktau (13,234′), Front Range

Mt Sniktau (13,234′), Front Range

by | Jan 23, 2022 | Difficult Hikes, Dog Friendly, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Snowshoeing, Trip Reports

Mt Sniktau (13,234′), Front Range

Mount Sniktau sits just east of the Continental Divide on the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. The summit is located less than a mile south of Interstate 70, and east of the Eisenhower Tunnel. Despite being close to an Interstate and being one of the windiest places in Colorado, Mt Sniktau made the list because of the epic views from the summit.

From the ridge, you will see Loveland Pass below at 11,990 ft (3,655 m), Torreys Peak (14,267′), with Grays Peak (14,270′) popping up behind it to the southeast. There are too many more peaks to list that you can see from the summit, but some others include Mt. Evans 14,264′, Quandary Peak (14,265′), Mt. Parnassus (13er), Mt. Bard (13er), Longs Peak 14,255′, and Mt. of the Holy Cross (14,005). Also visible is the Tenmile/Mosquito Range and hundreds of other peaks. To the west are the ski runs of Loveland Ski Area, Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, and Breckenridge across the Continental Divide. What a view!

The name “Sniktau” refers to the pen name of Edwin H. N. Patterson, journalist and editor of the Colorado Miner in the Clear Creek County area during the 1860s. Patterson was a close friend of the famous poet, Edgar Allan Poe.

Trail Stats

Mt Sniktau
  • Trailhead: Grizzly Peak / Loveland Pass
  • Round trip: 4 miles / 6.4 km
  • Elevation: 11,990′ – 13,234′ / 3,655 m – 4,034 m
  • County: Clear Creek
  • Forest: Arapaho
Elevation Map Pancake Rocks

Weather

GPS Route with Elevation

Trail Pictures

Mt Sniktau 13,234'

Mt Sniktau 13,234′

Mt Sniktau 13,234′

On the climb to the ridge with Loveland Pass below

On the climb to the ridge with Loveland Pass below

On the climb to the ridge with Loveland Pass below

View of Arapaho Basin

View of Arapaho Basin

View of Arapaho Basin

Heading to the ridge above

Heading to the ridge above

Heading to the ridge above

View along the ridge

View along the ridge

View along the ridge

Looking back along the route to a false summit

Looking back along the route to a false summit

Looking back along the route to a false summit

Torreys Peak 14,267' From Mt Sniktau

Torreys Peak 14,267′ From Mt Sniktau

Torreys Peak 14,267′ From Mt Sniktau

Looking back along the ridgeline

Looking back along the ridgeline

Looking back along the ridgeline

View to the NW

View to the NW

View to the NW

I-70 Eisenhower Tunnel - highest point on U.S. interstate system

I-70 Eisenhower Tunnel – highest point on U.S. interstate system

I-70 Eisenhower Tunnel – highest point on U.S. interstate system

I-70 Eisenhower Tunnel - highest point on U.S. interstate system

I-70 Eisenhower Tunnel – highest point on U.S. interstate system

I-70 Eisenhower Tunnel – highest point on U.S. interstate system

View looking north

View looking north

View looking north

Endless mountain peaks in every direction

Endless mountain peaks in every direction

Endless mountain peaks in every direction

Summit view looking east with I-70 below

Summit view looking east with I-70 below

Summit view looking east with I-70 below

Mt. Parnassus (13,574') and Bard Peak (13,641') from the summit of Mt. Sniktau

Mt. Parnassus (13,574′) and Bard Peak (13,641′) from the summit of Mt. Sniktau

Mt. Parnassus (13,574′) and Bard Peak (13,641′) from the summit of Mt. Sniktau

Torreys Peak 14,267' from Mt Sniktau's ridgeline

Torreys Peak 14,267′ from Mt Sniktau’s ridgeline

Torreys Peak 14,267′ from Mt Sniktau’s ridgeline

Mt Sniktau with two people on the summit

Mt Sniktau with two people on the summit

Mt Sniktau with two people on the summit

View of Quandary Peak 14,265' in the distance (left of center)

View of Quandary Peak 14,265′ in the distance (left of center)

View of Quandary Peak 14,265′ in the distance (left of center)

Looking back after gaining 1,000' to the ridge

Looking back after gaining 1,000′ to the ridge

Looking back after gaining 1,000′ to the ridge

HWY 6 winding it's way to Loveland Pass

HWY 6 winding it’s way to Loveland Pass

HWY 6 winding it’s way to Loveland Pass

Heading to the ridge and then left

Heading to the ridge and then left

Heading to the ridge and then left

First objective is to get up to the ridgeline

First objective is to get up to the ridgeline

First objective is to get up to the ridgeline

Looking back at the trailhead

Looking back at the trailhead

Looking back at the trailhead

Video Tour

Trail Directions

From the parking lot, head east towards Mt Sniktau. You’ll first climb to the saddle at point 12,915, a mile ahead of you. After gaining the ridge, take a left (north) to continue up the southwest ridge. Head towards another bump which is a false summit at 13,152 feet.

Hike through a short rocky section to reach the final false summit. You can now see the remaining route to reach the true peak’s summit. Keep hiking and drop about 250 feet into the saddle before you ascend for another quarter mile to reach the summit.

 

Trailhead Directions

Lake Isabelle (10,910′), Front Range

Lake Isabelle (10,910′), Front Range

by | Nov 7, 2021 | Featured, Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountains, Snowshoeing, Trip Reports

Lake Isabelle (10,910′), Front Range

Lake Isabelle lies hidden in a high, isolated bowl-shaped basin at the top of the South St. Vrain drainage in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. It lies at tree-line in a stunning alpine valley surrounded by Navajo (13,409′), Apache (13,441′) and Shoshoni (12,967′) peaks. The Continental Divide is located just west of the lake, running along the high peaks above the valley.

Mitchell & Blue Lake and Mt Audubon, are also located in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area and also offer beautiful views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness.

Trail Stats

Lake Isabelle
Elevation Map Pancake Rocks

Weather

GPS Route with Elevation

 

Trail Pictures

Park closed in winter to motorized vehicles

Park closed in winter to motorized vehicles

Park closed in winter to motorized vehicles

Brainard Lake Rec. Area

Brainard Lake Rec. Area

Brainard Lake Rec. Area

Road to the Long Lake trailhead

Road to the Long Lake trailhead

Road to the Long Lake trailhead

Out of control bike ride along the closed road

Out of control bike ride along the closed road

Out of control bike ride along the closed road

Long Lake Trailhead

Long Lake Trailhead

Long Lake Trailhead

View through the dense forest

View through the dense forest

View through the dense forest

Long Lake, Brainard Lake Rec Area

Long Lake, Brainard Lake Rec Area

Long Lake, Brainard Lake Rec Area

Trail in great winter condition

Trail in great winter condition

Trail in great winter condition

Long Lake, with sounds of moose nearby

Long Lake, with sounds of moose nearby

Long Lake, with sounds of moose nearby

One of the many creek crossings

One of the many creek crossings

One of the many creek crossings

Shoshoni Peak ahead

Shoshoni Peak ahead

Shoshoni Peak ahead

Meadow on the way to Lake Isabelle

Meadow on the way to Lake Isabelle

Meadow on the way to Lake Isabelle

As you near Lake Isabelle the trees thin out

As you near Lake Isabelle the trees thin out

As you near Lake Isabelle the trees thin out

The upper portion of the South St. Vrain Creek valley

The upper portion of the South St. Vrain Creek valley

The upper portion of the South St. Vrain Creek valley

Above Lake Isabelle

Above Lake Isabelle

Above Lake Isabelle

The incredible scenery of Lake Isabelle

The incredible scenery of Lake Isabelle

The incredible scenery of Lake Isabelle

Panorama of Lake Isabelle

Panorama of Lake Isabelle

Panorama of Lake Isabelle

Niwot Ridge, 13,409-foot Navajo Peak, Navajo Glacier, 13,441-foot Apache Peak and 12,967-foot Shoshoni Peak, looking from left to right

Niwot Ridge, 13,409-foot Navajo Peak, Navajo Glacier, 13,441-foot Apache Peak and 12,967-foot Shoshoni Peak, looking from left to right

Niwot Ridge, 13,409-foot Navajo Peak, Navajo Glacier, 13,441-foot Apache Peak and 12,967-foot Shoshoni Peak, looking from left to right

The Continental Divide lies along the jagged peaks

The Continental Divide lies along the jagged peaks

The Continental Divide lies along the jagged peaks

View along the northern shore

View along the northern shore

View along the northern shore

View from the waters edge

View from the waters edge

View from the waters edge

One last look at Lake Isabelle

One last look at Lake Isabelle

One last look at Lake Isabelle

Winter in full display in early November

Winter in full display in early November

Winter in full display in early November

Heading back to the Long Lake trailhead

Heading back to the Long Lake trailhead

Heading back to the Long Lake trailhead

Video Tour

Trail Directions

From the Long Lake Trailhead, the trail begins its relatively gentle ascent up to Long Lake. After a quarter-mile of trekking, the trail intersects the Jean Lunning Trail, which will take you to and around Long Lake.  This area is known for moose sightings. Avoid the Jean Lunning Trail and continue to the right uphill to Lake Isabelle.

After approximately 1 more mile, the trail intersects the Jean Lunning Trail for the second time.  Again, continue towards Lake Isabelle and Pawnee Pass, bypassing the Jean Lunning Trail.  Lake Isabelle is just another .9 miles beyond this trail junction. From the lake you have the option of continuing further up the trail to reach Isabelle Glacier.

Trailhead Directions

Estes Cone (11,007′), Front Range

Estes Cone (11,007′), Front Range

by | Oct 24, 2021 | Front Range, Moderate Hikes, Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountains, Snowshoeing, Trip Reports

Estes Cone (11,007′), Front Range

Estes Cone is located about 3 miles from the Longs Peak trailhead on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park. The peak serves as a prominent landmark in the Tahosa Valley to the east. The peak is named for one of the first settlers in Estes Valley, Joel Estes. The granite peak has a rocky outcrop on the summit that provides unobstructed views of Rocky Mountain National Park.

On the way to Estes Cone you will pass by the old Eugene Mine area, of which there is almost no trace left. Moving on you end up at Storm Pass, after which the steepest part of the hike begins. Just before reaching the summit you will hit a cliff band. Head to the right  and there will be a weakness in the wall that you can scramble up to the summit.

Trail Stats

Estes Cone

Weather

GPS Route with Elevation

Trail Pictures – October 2021

Longs Peak trailhead

Longs Peak trailhead

Longs Peak trailhead

The first junction on the Longs Peak trail

The first junction on the Longs Peak trail

The first junction on the Longs Peak trail

Meadow near Moore Park

Meadow near Moore Park

Meadow near Moore Park

Near Storm Pass

Near Storm Pass

Near Storm Pass

Steepest part of the trail near the summit

Steepest part of the trail near the summit

Steepest part of the trail near the summit

Estes Cone summit

Estes Cone summit

Estes Cone summit

Looking north from the summit

Looking north from the summit

Looking north from the summit

The wind gusts were dangerous on the summit

The wind gusts were dangerous on the summit

The wind gusts were dangerous on the summit

Southwest view from the summit

Southwest view from the summit

Southwest view from the summit

Northwest view from the summit

Northwest view from the summit

Northwest view from the summit

View along the western cliff face

View along the western cliff face

View along the western cliff face

Summit view to the south

Summit view to the south

Summit view to the south

Summit view looking west with Longs Peak covered in clouds all day

Summit view looking west with Longs Peak covered in clouds all day

Summit view looking west with Longs Peak covered in clouds all day

View east from the summit with Lake Estes below

View east from the summit with Lake Estes below

View east from the summit with Lake Estes below

Northwest view from the summit

Northwest view from the summit

Northwest view from the summit

The route up to the summit - a steep scramble

The route up to the summit – a steep scramble

The route up to the summit – a steep scramble

View west on the final climb to the summit

View west on the final climb to the summit

View west on the final climb to the summit

View north from the summit

View north from the summit

View north from the summit

Looking northwest just below the summit

Looking northwest just below the summit

Looking northwest just below the summit

Mt Meeker (left) and Longs Peak (right)

Mt Meeker (left) and Longs Peak (right)

Mt Meeker (left) and Longs Peak (right)

Meadow near Moore Park

Meadow near Moore Park

Meadow near Moore Park

Ruins near the old Eugene Mine

Ruins near the old Eugene Mine

Ruins near the old Eugene Mine

Ranger station at the foot of the Longs Peak trail

Ranger station at the foot of the Longs Peak trail

Ranger station at the foot of the Longs Peak trail

Estes Cone from Hwy 7

Estes Cone from Hwy 7

Estes Cone from Hwy 7

Trail Pictures – May 2015 – stopped 1/4 mile from the summit due to a rare snowstorm with lightning and thunder.

Estes Cone from the Longs Peak trailhead

Estes Cone from the Longs Peak trailhead

Estes Cone from the Longs Peak trailhead

Serious lightening hazard so turned around about 100ft from the top

Serious lightening hazard so turned around about 100ft from the top

Serious lightening hazard so turned around about 100ft from the top

heavy thunderstorm with snow on Estes Cone

heavy thunderstorm with snow

heavy thunderstorm with snow

Storm moving in

Storm moving in

Storm moving in

Following cairns

Following cairns

Following cairns

Close to the Estes Cone turnoff

Close to the Estes Cone turnoff

Close to the Estes Cone turnoff

Looking towards Longs Peak

Looking towards Longs Peak

Looking towards Longs Peak

Weather rolling in

Weather rolling in

Weather rolling in

The only break from the dense forest

The only break from the dense forest

The only break from the dense forest

A rare glimpse of sunshine

A rare glimpse of sunshine

A rare glimpse of sunshine

Snow deepened at the turnoff for Eugene Mine

Snow deepened at the turnoff for Eugene Mine

Snow deepened at the turnoff for Eugene Mine

Fairly clear near the trailhead

Fairly clear near the trailhead

Fairly clear near the trailhead

Longs Peak trailhead ranger station

Longs Peak trailhead ranger station

Longs Peak trailhead ranger station

Estes Cone in the distance

Estes Cone in the distance

Estes Cone in the distance

Video Tour

Trail Directions

The approach to Estes Cone from the Longs Peak trailhead is relatively easy with mild uphills until you reach the base of the mountain. Once you turn off the Storm Pass trail you will see cairns marking the turnoff to begin the steeper 800′ scramble to the top. Once you reach the base of the summit, head right of the rock wall to scramble to the summit.

Trailhead Directions

Pikes Peak (14,110′), Front Range

Pikes Peak (14,110′), Front Range

by | Dec 26, 2020 | 14er's, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Touring, Trip Reports

Pikes Peak (14,110′), Front Range

Pikes Peak is the highest summit of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in North America. The prominent 14,115-foot (4,302.31 m) fourteener is located in Pike National Forest, 12 miles (19 km) west of downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado.  The summit is higher than any point in the United States east of its longitude. The uppermost portion of Pikes Peak, above 14,000 feet (4,267 m) elevation, was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1961.

The mountain and it’s flanks offer great hiking, such as Pancake Rocks and the Crags. The other 14,000′ peak in Colorado with a paved road to nearly the summit is Mt Evans.

Trail Stats

Pikes Peak
  • Rating – Easy
  • Road: Pikes Peak Hwy
  • Round trip: 36 miles / 58 km
  • Elevation: 7,400′ – 14,110′ / 2,256 m – 4,301 m
  • County: El Paso
  • Agency: U.S. Forest Service
  • National Forest: Pike

Weather

GPS Route with Elevation

Trail Pictures

View of Pikes Peak from Almagre Mountain

View of Pikes Peak from Almagre Mountain

View of Pikes Peak from Almagre Mountain

Gift shop, snacks, and a brake check for vehicles

Gift shop, snacks, and a brake check for vehicles

Gift shop, snacks, and a brake check for vehicles

Pikes Peak Hwy is a popular tourist attraction

Pikes Peak Hwy is a popular tourist attraction

Pikes Peak Hwy is a popular tourist attraction

Plenty of areas to stop and enjoy the views

Plenty of areas to stop and enjoy the views

Plenty of areas to stop and enjoy the views

Looking towards the east are numerous reservoirs

Looking towards the east are numerous reservoirs

Looking towards the east are numerous reservoirs

The Front Range and eastern plains

The Front Range and eastern plains

The Front Range and eastern plains

Looking west above treeline

Looking west above treeline

Looking west above treeline

Patches of snow near the summit

Patches of snow near the summit

Patches of snow near the summit

Pikes Peak Hwy is well maintained but without guardrails

Pikes Peak Hwy is well maintained but without guardrails

Pikes Peak Hwy is well maintained but without guardrails

Nearing the summit

20201226_123101

Nearing the summit

Typically 20 degrees cooler near the summit

Typically 20 degrees cooler near the summit

Typically 20 degrees cooler near the summit

The Sawatch Mountain Range in the distance

The Sawatch Mountain Range in the distance

The Sawatch Mountain Range in the distance

View west from the summit

View west from the summit

View west from the summit

The Sawatch Mountain Range tot he west

The Sawatch Mountain Range tot he west

The Sawatch Mountain Range tot he west

Looking back at the route up

Looking back at the route up

Looking back at the route up

Views across the bottomless pit area

Views across the bottomless pit area

Views across the bottomless pit area

View north of the Front Range

View north of the Front Range

View north of the Front Range

View to the east near the base of Pikes Peak

View to the east near the base of Pikes Peak

View to the east near the base of Pikes Peak

Video Tour

Trail Directions

Take HWY 24 west from Colorado Springs for approximately 14 miles until you see the sign for the Pikes Peak Hwy. Turn left and follow the signs.

The road is paved but lacks guard rails so can be unsettling for first time mountain drivers.

This is a toll road with an entrance fee at the base of the mountain.

Trailhead Directions

Blodgett Peak (9,429′), Front Range

Blodgett Peak (9,429′), Front Range

by | Dec 5, 2020 | Difficult Hikes, 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.

While in the area, Mt Rosa, Almagre Mountain, and Mt Herman are also great hiking options.

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
Elevation Map Pancake Rocks

Weather

GPS Route with Elevation

Trail Pictures

Rock formation above the water tower

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 conditions heading into the valley

Trail is steep with lots of scree

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

View southeast with Cheyenne mountain in the distance

Heading down to the ridge from Blodgett Peak

Heading down to the ridge from Blodgett Peak

Heading down to the ridge from Blodgett Peak

Blodgett Peak looking south

20201205_125039

Blodgett Peak looking south

Pikes Peak in the distance

Pikes Peak in the distance

Pikes Peak in the distance

Summit view east

Summit view east

Summit view east

Summit view to the northwest

Summit view to the northwest

Summit view to the northwest

The U.S. Air Force Academy

The U.S. Air Force Academy

The U.S. Air Force Academy

A reservoir in the center

A reservoir in the center

A reservoir in the center

Looking back down the route

Looking back down the route

Looking back down the route

Nearing the ridge from the east

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

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

Followed gullies up to the ridge

Waldo Canyon fire scar

Waldo Canyon fire scar

Waldo Canyon fire scar

Another scree filled gully

Another scree filled gully

Another scree filled gully

Very steep - a tough scramble

Very steep – a tough scramble

Very steep – a tough scramble

Very few trees on the steep slope

Very few trees on the steep slope

Very few trees on the steep slope

First objective above

First objective above

First objective above

A pleasant hike on single track to this point

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

Looking back up the trail

Just a dusting of snow in the shade

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)

View from the trailhead (Blodgett Peak behind this hill)

Video Tour

Trail Directions

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.

Trailhead Directions

Pancake Rocks (11,060′), Front Range

Pancake Rocks (11,060′), Front Range

by | 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
Elevation Map Pancake Rocks

Weather

GPS Route with Elevation

Trail Pictures

Near the trailhead

Near the trailhead

Near the trailhead

Head straight at the first intersection

Head straight at the first intersection

Head straight at the first intersection

Sentinel Point 12,513

Sentinel Point 12,513

Sentinel Point 12,513

Trail begins with a steep hike

Trail begins with a steep hike

Trail begins with a steep hike

A Gray Jay hanging out

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

The trail becomes steep again with switchbacks through the forest

Well used trail through the forest

Well used trail through the forest

Well used trail through the forest

The Crags peaking through

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

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

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

Climbed rocks nearby to get a northwestern view

Great views from the rock outcropping

Great views from the rock outcropping

Great views from the rock outcropping

Pancake Rocks looking west

Pancake Rocks looking west

Pancake Rocks looking west

Beautiful views on a bluebird day

Beautiful views on a bluebird day

Beautiful views on a bluebird day

View to the southeast

View to the southeast

View to the southeast

View to the southwest

View to the southwest

View to the southwest

The main rock grouping

The main rock grouping

The main rock grouping

Pancake Rocks

Pancake Rocks

Pancake Rocks

Seating for giants

Seating for giants

Seating for giants

A shelter under a large pancake

A shelter under a large pancake

A shelter under a large pancake

Rock formations near Pancake Rocks

Rock formations near Pancake Rocks

Rock formations near Pancake Rocks

The Crags looking north through the trees

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

View from the trail to the northwest

Old signage

Old signage

Old signage

An excellent trail near the trailhead

An excellent trail near the trailhead

An excellent trail near the trailhead

Video Tour

Trail Directions

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.  

Trailhead Directions

Mt Audubon (13,223′), Front Range

Mt Audubon (13,223′), Front Range

by | Aug 9, 2020 | Difficult Hikes, 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 & Blue Lake and Lake Isabelle are scattered in the valleys.

Trail Stats

Mt Audubon
  • Trailhead: Beaver Creek Trail (at Mitchell Lake parking lot)
  • Round trip: 8 miles / 12.9 km
  • Elevation: 10,350′ – 13,223′ / 3,155m – 4,030m
  • County: Boulder
  • Agency: U.S. Forest Service
  • Nat’l Forest: Roosevelt 
  • Nat’l Wilderness: Indian Peaks

Weather

GPS Route with Elevation

Trail Pictures

Mt Audubon 13,223'

Mt Audubon 13,223′

Mt Audubon 13,223′

View near the trailhead looking west

View near the trailhead looking west

View near the trailhead looking west

View of Mitchell Lake

View of Mitchell Lake

View of Mitchell Lake

The trail is deceptively rocky

The trail is deceptively rocky

The trail is deceptively rocky

Near treeline

Near treeline

Near treeline

Willows on the left, Bristle cone pines on the right

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

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

Last of the winter snow with reservoirs in the distance

The trail marked by cairns

The trail marked by cairns

The trail marked by cairns

The summit just ahead

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

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

Views east from the summit with haze from wildfires

Upper Coney Lake below

Upper Coney Lake below

Upper Coney Lake below

Paiute Peak 13,088'

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

View into the Indian Peaks Wilderness from the summit

More summit views

More summit views

More summit views

View to the southeast of the Front Range

View to the southeast of the Front Range

View to the southeast of the Front Range

A false summit ahead

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

On the last 600′ of vertical distance to the summit

3 Ptarmigans along the trail

3 Ptarmigans along the trail

3 Ptarmigans along the trail

A busy trail

A busy trail

A busy trail

View of the Front Range to the east

View of the Front Range to the east

View of the Front Range to the east

Just below treeline

Just below treeline

Just below treeline

Early morning along the rugged trail

Early morning along the rugged trail

Early morning along the rugged trail

Sunrise along the Beaver Creek 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

Just past the trailhead before sunrise

View to the northwest from the summit

View to the northwest from the summit

View to the northwest from the summit

Video Tour

Trail Directions

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.

Trailhead Directions

Shelf Road (9,494′), Fourmile Canyon

Shelf Road (9,494′), Fourmile Canyon

by | 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

Weather

GPS Route with Elevation

Trail Pictures

Rock formations in Red Canyon Park

Rock formations in Red Canyon Park

Rock formations in Red Canyon Park

Shelf Rd turnoff in Cripple Creek

Shelf Rd turnoff in Cripple Creek

Shelf Rd turnoff in Cripple Creek

Heading south down the canyon

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

Fourmile Creek carved the deep canyon Shelf Rd follows

View north of Fourmile Creek

View north of Fourmile Creek

View north of Fourmile Creek

Mountain and desert plants along the route

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

Well maintained road all the way through

Shelf Rd near Cripple Creek

Shelf Rd near Cripple Creek

Shelf Rd near Cripple Creek

Winding through the narrow canyon

Winding through the narrow canyon

Winding through the narrow canyon

The Window rock formation near the road

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

Shelf Rd was a very scenic canyon drive

The Window formation when heading south

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

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

Shelf Road Gold Belt Tour National Scenic Byway

Old mining retaining wall near Mound City

Old mining retaining wall near Mound City

Old mining retaining wall near Mound City

Cripple Creek, Colorado

Cripple Creek, Colorado

Cripple Creek, Colorado

Video Tour

Route Directions

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.

Trailhead Directions

Fremont Peak (7,273′), Royal Gorge

Fremont Peak (7,273′), Royal Gorge

by | 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.

Trail Stats

Fremont Peak

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.

Weather

GPS Track with Elevation

Trail Pictures

Heading back on County Road 3A

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

Beginning of the hike on County Road 389B

EastRidge Trailhead

EastRidge Trailhead

EastRidge Trailhead

View of Fremont Peak from the trail

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 Pikes Peak to the north

View of Fremont Peak summit

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

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

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 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 north

Summit view to the east

Summit view to the east

Summit view to the east

A large cairn at the summit

A large cairn at the summit

A large cairn at the summit

Last push to the summit

Last push to the summit

Last push to the summit

Looking back along the trail

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 steep slope to the summit after leaving the trail

The glowing summit straight ahead

The glowing summit straight ahead

The glowing summit straight ahead

The trail after the radio towers

The trail after the radio towers

The trail after the radio towers

Cactus blooming in February

Cactus blooming in February

Cactus blooming in February

Lots of cactus along the trail

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

County Road 389B ends at the towers

The road follows the top of the ridge

The road follows the top of the ridge

The road follows the top of the ridge

Lots of traffic

Lots of traffic

Lots of traffic

A view into the Royal Gorge from the trail

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 trail winding to the southeast

The Royal Gorge looking east

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

The Royal Gorge bridge crosses 955′ above the Arkansas River

Video Tour

Trail Directions

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.

Trailhead Directions

The Crags (10,856′), Front Range

The Crags (10,856′), Front Range

by | 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.

Another hike along the the flanks of Pikes Peak with very unique geological features is Pancake Rocks.

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