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 | Sep 13, 2020 | 4X4, Dog Friendly, Mosquito Range, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Mosquito Pass (13,185′), Mosquito Range
Mosquito Pass was built to connect the towns of Alma to the east, with Leadville to the west. It is the highest crossable vehicle mountain pass in the U.S. outside of Alaska. While there are higher vehicle passes, they are all out and back. The trail crosses the Continental Divide, between the Arkansas and South Platte Rivers.
The Mosquito Range is also home to five 14,000′ peaks; Mt Sherman, Mt Democrat, Mt Cameron, Mt Lincoln, and Mt Bross.
Trail Stats
Mosquito Pass
- Trailhead: Alma or Leadville
- Round trip: 17 miles / 27.4 km
- Elevation: 10,361 – 13,185′ / 3,158m – 4,019 m
- County: Park
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: San Isabel
The top of the pass is the turnaround point for the 21-mile course of the Western Pack Burro Ass-ociation’s burro races, held the first weekend of August each year and part of the Leadville Boom Days heritage festival.
Each June, hundreds of people run to the top of the pass in the Leadville Trail Marathon and Heavy Half Marathon, part of the CenturyLink Leadville Race Series.
Summit of Mosquito Pass 13,185′
Summit of Mosquito Pass 13,185′
West side of the pass road is covered in dangerous snow drifts
West side of the pass road is covered in dangerous snow drifts
Impossible to get to Leadville (middle right) from the pass
Impossible to get to Leadville (middle right) from the pass
First snow of the season made the west side of the pass to dangerous for vehicles
First snow of the season made the west side of the pass to dangerous for vehicles
Looking east towards Alma and the Front Range
Looking east towards Alma and the Front Range
View west with the Sawatch Range in the distance
View west with the Sawatch Range in the distance
Diamond Lake to the west
Diamond Lake to the west
The road traversed up the valley
The road traversed up the valley
Leadville in the valley below
Leadville in the valley below
This is not what you want on Mosquito Pass – treacherous road conditions
This is not what you want on Mosquito Pass – treacherous road conditions
Road becomes very rocky and narrow as you near the pass
Road becomes very rocky and narrow as you near the pass
A couple Hummer’s headed for the pass
A couple Hummer’s headed for the pass
The first snow had fallen three days ago
The first snow had fallen three days ago
London Mine ruins in the valley above Alma
London Mine ruins in the valley above Alma
The trail at treeline
The trail at treeline
The road ahead
The road ahead
Winding through the Mosquito Range
Winding through the Mosquito Range
View of Pennsylvania Mountain
View of Pennsylvania Mountain
Six miles from Mosquito Pass head tot he right
Six miles from Mosquito Pass head tot he right
Great road conditions on Hwy 12
Great road conditions on Hwy 12
Turnoff from Hwy 9 near Alma
Turnoff from Hwy 9 near Alma
From Fairplay, follow Colorado Highway 9 north for 4 1/5 miles to County Road 12 (Mosquito Pass Road) and turn left. The tour begins quickly after turning off Highway 9.
by mlz2000 | Aug 30, 2020 | 4X4, Dog Friendly, Featured, Rocky Mountains, San Juan Range, Trip Reports
Stony Pass (12,592′), San Juan Range
Stony Pass Rd crosses the Continental Divide and follows small streams that make up the headwaters of the Rio Grande River. The road was created in 1872 to connect the area’s mining operations in Silverton to the town of Del Norte. The Continental Divide Trail crosses the road at Hunchback Pass (12,493′) on it’s way from Mexico to Canada.
The San Juan Range is home to world class outdoor recreation. American Basin, California & Hurricane Pass, and Mt Sneffels are a few examples of the natural beauty of the area.
Trail Stats
Stony Pass
- Rating: Silverton to Stony Pass – Easy
- Stony Pass to Kite Lake – Difficult
- Road: County Road 3 (Forest Rd 520)
- Round trip: 34 miles / 54 km to Kite Lake and back
- Elevation: 10,000′ – 12,592′ / 3,048 m – 3,808 m
- County: San Juan
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- National Wilderness: Weminuche
The road crosses the headwaters of the Rio Grande near Kite Lake.
View back into valley (Silverton area)
View back into valley (Silverton area)
I “heart” the San Juans
I “heart” the San Juans
Looking west at the road as it follows Bear Creek
Looking west at the road as it follows Bear Creek
Near Beartown Trailhead (CDT)
Near Beartown Trailhead (CDT)
Crossing the Rio Grande River headwaters
Crossing the Rio Grande River headwaters
Near Stony Pass summit
Near Stony Pass summit
Stony Pass summit
Stony Pass summit
View east from Stony Pass
View east from Stony Pass
Nearing the summit from the west
Nearing the summit from the west
Stony Pass summit looking east
Stony Pass summit looking east
Looking west from the summit of Stony Pass
Looking west from the summit of Stony Pass
The road up the west side of Stony Pass
The road up the west side of Stony Pass
The road is rocky but solid.
The road is rocky but solid.
County Road 3 to Stony Pass (heading east) is a well graded and a easy drive to the top in a stock vehicle (in good weather). Once on the east side of the pass, an off-road vehicle is recommended because the road gets progressively more difficult until Kite Lake.
Pole Creek, a water crossing on the east side of the pass, can be very deep in the spring, making it impossible to cross.
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 | Jun 6, 2020 | Dog Friendly, Flat Tops, Rocky Mountains, Touring, Trip Reports
Flat Tops Scenic Byway (10,343′), Flat Tops
Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway (County Road 8), runs through the northern portion of the Flat Tops Wilderness. The Flat Tops is Colorado’s second largest Wilderness, spanning a total of 235,214 acres.
The Flat Tops are part of the White River Plateau, with an average elevation of 10,000 feet. Approximately 110 lakes and ponds, often unnamed, dot the country above and below the numerous flat-topped cliffs. The valleys and relatively gentle land above the cliffs offers over 160 miles of trails to explore.
Trappers Lake is located at the halfway point, and is well worth a short detour.
Trail Stats
Flat Tops Scenic Byway
Grouse bottom center during sunset
Grouse bottom center during sunset
Bald Eagle on the western end of the route
Bald Eagle on the western end of the route
Bald Eagle on a perch in the center
Bald Eagle on a perch in the center
Elk in the lush western valley
Elk in the lush western valley
The 12,000′ Flat Tops
The 12,000′ Flat Tops
View from Ripple Creek Pass
View from Ripple Creek Pass
Dunkley Pass view
Dunkley Pass view
Flat Tops Wilderness looking east
Flat Tops Wilderness looking east
Looking back east
Looking back east
Spring in the Flat Tops
Spring in the Flat Tops
Things get green as we rise in elevation
Things get green as we rise in elevation
Cattle guard near the summit of the pass
Cattle guard near the summit of the pass
Summit of the pass
Summit of the pass
Well graded road on the east side
Well graded road on the east side
Not far from Yampa
Not far from Yampa
Lush valley on the west side
Lush valley on the west side
Beautiful sunset over the Flat Tops
Beautiful sunset over the Flat Tops
First glimpse of the Flat Tops
First glimpse of the Flat Tops
Starting from the east side in Yampa, take County Road 8 to the west.
The road soon begins to climb until you reach Dunkley Pass at 9,763′.
After descending the pass, the road begins to climb again very quickly until you reach the highest point on the byway, Ripple Creek Pass 10,343′.
Continuing west you soon reach the Trappers Lake turnoff. This marks the 1/2 point of the byway.
Soon after the Trappers Lake turnoff the road becomes paved the rest of the way to Meeker. Its a slow decent with large ranches in the lush valley.
by mlz2000 | Jun 5, 2020 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Flat Tops, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports
Trappers Lake (9,627′), Flat Tops
Roughly a mile and a half long and half a mile wide, reaching depths of 180 feet, Trappers Lake is the second largest natural lake in Colorado after Grand Lake. You reach the lake by taking the Flat Tops Scenic Byway from Yampa or Meeker.
The area is as wild today as it was when it was first discovered. In 1891 White River, which includes the Flat Tops, became one of the first two National Forests in the U.S.
The trail around the lake is named for Arthur Carhart, whose survey near the lake in 1919 inspired him to recommend preserving the area without development for future generations to enjoy. Arthur Carhart’s efforts set the stage for the Wilderness Act of 1964 and the National Wilderness Preservation System which includes Trappers Lake and the rest of the Flat Tops Wilderness.
Trail Stats
Trappers Lake
The trailhead is adjacent to the beautiful Trappers Lake Overlook.
View of Trappers Lake from the Arthur H Carhart Trail
View of Trappers Lake from the Arthur H Carhart Trail
View to the southeast from the trail
View to the southeast from the trail
Trailhead for the Arthur H Carhart trail
Trailhead for the Arthur H Carhart trail
Northwestern side of Trappers Lake
Northwestern side of Trappers Lake
Looking into the Amphitheater
Looking into the Amphitheater
South side of the lake
South side of the lake
The major inlet to the left
The major inlet to the left
Trappers Peak on the left
Trappers Peak on the left
The cabin at Trappers Lake
The cabin at Trappers Lake
The cabin sits on the east side of the lake
The cabin sits on the east side of the lake
Looking northwest towards the trailhead
Looking northwest towards the trailhead
Trappers Lake in early June
Trappers Lake in early June
Heading south to the cabin
Heading south to the cabin
Little Trappers Lake lies beyond the cabin
Little Trappers Lake lies beyond the cabin
Small lake inlets to the left
Small lake inlets to the left
1.5 miles long, .5 miles wide and reaching a depth of 180′.
1.5 miles long, .5 miles wide and reaching a depth of 180′.
Several types of trout live in the lake
Several types of trout live in the lake
A Brown Bear on the hillside near the lake
A Brown Bear on the hillside near the lake
Over 11,400′ high flat top
Over 11,400′ high flat top
Fishing for trout in the distance
Fishing for trout in the distance
The trail heading north
The trail heading north
The trail leading around the lake
The trail leading around the lake
One of the many small inlets
One of the many small inlets
Trappers Lake TH view
Trappers Lake TH view
From the end of Trappers Lake road, take the Arthur H Carhart Trail in either direction around the lake. The trailhead is next to the Trappers Lake Overlook. The trail is easy to follow in summer conditions.
by mlz2000 | May 23, 2020 | 4X4, Dog Friendly, Featured, Rocky Mountains, Sangre de Cristo Range, Trip Reports
Hayden Pass (10,709′), Sangre de Cristo Range
Hayden Pass road crosses the Sangre de Cristo Mountains between Villa Grove in the west, and Coaldale to the east. The road is most challenging and scenic when started from Villa Grove, on the southwest side. With grades up to 20%, great views of the San Luis valley below can be seen.
This is one of only two vehicle passes over the Sangre de Cristo range. The other vehicle pass being Medano Pass, on the southern tip of the range. This pass travels through the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Trail Stats
Hayden Pass
- Trail: Forest Road 6 Coaldale to the east or Villa Grove on the west
- One-Way: 16 miles / 26 km
- Elevation: 7,986′ – 10,709′ / 2,434 m – 3,264 m
- County: Saguache
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: San Isabel
The road is narrow but better than the west side
The road is narrow but better than the west side
Heading down the eastern side of the pass
Heading down the eastern side of the pass
Hayden Pass 10,709′
Hayden Pass 10,709′
The trail entered thick forests as it climbed to the pass
The trail entered thick forests as it climbed to the pass
The road conditions deteriorated at this point and required 4×4
The road conditions deteriorated at this point and required 4×4
View back west of the road
View back west of the road
View of the San Luis Valley
View of the San Luis Valley
The road is rocky but fairly easy at this point
The road is rocky but fairly easy at this point
The Sangre de Cristo Range stretching south
The Sangre de Cristo Range stretching south
Looking back west shortly after the trail starts climbing
Looking back west shortly after the trail starts climbing
Hayden Pass Road near Villa Grove on the west side
Hayden Pass Road near Villa Grove on the west side
The scar from the Hayden fire on the east side
The scar from the Hayden fire on the east side
The mountain drops away providing great views
The mountain drops away providing great views
A patch of snow over the road created a barrier
A patch of snow over the road created a barrier
Thanks to local Matthew Celommi, who was riding his dirt bike, and offered to help
Thanks to local Matthew Celommi, who was riding his dirt bike, and offered to help
In serious jeopardy of having the driver side back wheel slide into the ravine. Time to winch.
In serious jeopardy of having the driver side back wheel slide into the ravine. Time to winch.
Start by accessing Hayden Pass RD (FR 6) from Coaldale on the east side of the Sangre de Cristo mountains or from Villa Grove on the west side.
The pass is more difficult if started on the west side (Villa Grove) because you are climbing on a very rocky trail.
Hayden Pass summit is a large flat area after a continuous climb. The views from the road here are blocked by thick forest.
The road on the east side of the pass is better maintained and not as rocky.
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 | Oct 19, 2019 | 4X4, Featured, Rocky Mountains, Sawatch Range, Trip Reports
Tincup Pass (12,154′), Sawatch Range
Tincup Pass gets its name from prospector Jim Taylor, who in 1860 brought his gold strike back to camp in his tin cup. The pass was used to move supplies between St. Elmo and the town of Tin Cup starting in 1881, when a wagon road was built.
The views and hiking opportunities along the road are abundant. There are 13,000′ peaks that can be easily accessed from 267 (Tin Cup Peak, PT 13,050, and Fitzpatrick Peak). In addition, the prominent Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail cross Tin Cup Pass Rd (267) about 4 miles from St. Elmo.
The Sawatch Mountain Range is home to fifteen 14,000′ peaks, such as Huron Peak, La Plata Peak, Missouri Mountain, Mt Antero, and the highest peak in the Rocky Mountains, Mt Elbert.
Paved Highway over Cottonwood Pass 12,126′
Paved Highway over Cottonwood Pass 12,126′
Leaving Tin Cup on the way to Cottonwood Pass
Leaving Tin Cup on the way to Cottonwood Pass
Many historic buildings in the town of Tin Cup
Many historic buildings in the town of Tin Cup
Beautiful fall colors in the meadows
Beautiful fall colors in the meadows
View near the Tin Cup cemetery
View near the Tin Cup cemetery
Historic buildings are used as summer homes
Historic buildings are used as summer homes
The town of Tin Cup
The town of Tin Cup
West of Mirror Lake the road conditions improve
West of Mirror Lake the road conditions improve
The road consists of large talus along Mirror Lake
The road consists of large talus along Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake lies on the north side of Tincup Pass
Mirror Lake lies on the north side of Tincup Pass
The road cleared up quickly and became wider
The road cleared up quickly and became wider
View of the north side of Tincup Pass
View of the north side of Tincup Pass
Creeping down the steep section as the ice got worse
Creeping down the steep section as the ice got worse
Ice becomes an issue coming down the north side of Tincup Pass
Ice becomes an issue coming down the north side of Tincup Pass
The road winding north through the tundra
The road winding north through the tundra
Looking into the East Willow Creek drainage
Looking into the East Willow Creek drainage
View north from Tincup Pass
View north from Tincup Pass
Tincup Pass 12,154′ – part of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT)
Tincup Pass 12,154′ – part of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT)
Nearing the summit
Nearing the summit
A light dusting of snow
A light dusting of snow
The shelf road near treeline
The shelf road near treeline
Rough road approaching treeline
Rough road approaching treeline
Avalanche debris from last winter
Avalanche debris from last winter
The road is very rough and rocky on the southeast side
The road is very rough and rocky on the southeast side
Stay right to start climbing to Tincup Pass
Stay right to start climbing to Tincup Pass
At the next intersection in St Elmo make a left
At the next intersection in St Elmo make a left
At the first junction in St Elmo, make a right
At the first junction in St Elmo, make a right
Starting from the south side of the pass at St. Elmo, the 4WD road climbs west toward Tincup Pass following the North Fork of Chalk Creek.
After 4 miles the road climbs to the north toward Tincup Pass.
Another mile in brings you to treeline with a good view of the remainder of the route to the pass. The switchbacks ahead are very narrow.
Once up the ledge road and switchbacks you will be at Tincup Pass, about 6 miles from St. Elmo.
Heading down the north side of the pass, the road is rough for the first mile while it winds through the tundra.
The road gradually widens and becomes more maintained.
After crossing a creek you will drive on a section of road made up of large talus along the edge of Mirror Lake. This section is rough so use caution.
Once past the lake the road becomes passable by passenger vehicles.
by mlz2000 | Oct 5, 2019 | 14er's, 4X4, Rocky Mountains, Sawatch Range, Trip Reports
Mt Antero (14,269′) and Mt White (13,667′), Sawatch Range
Mt Antero is one of only a handful of 14,000′ peaks that has a road that travels to within a short distance of the summit. The road up the mountain is difficult, rough and rocky, requiring four-wheel drive, eventually topping out at 13,800′. From the end of the road at point 13,800 it’s a 1/2 mile and 470′ scramble to the summit.
In 1881, a Salida man by the name of Nelson Wanemaker discovered gems high on Mt Antero. His discovery was publicized a few years later, and the mountain became a famous collecting area for aquamarine, phenacite, fluorite, topaz, and smoky quartz crystals. It has the highest concentration of these minerals anywhere in the US. With findings far above timberline, this is the highest known gem field in the lower 48.
The Sawatch Mountain Range is home to fourteen other 14,000′ peaks, such as Huron Peak, La Plata Peak, Missouri Mountain, and the highest peak in the Rocky Mountains, Mt Elbert.
Trail Stats
Mt Antero
- Road: 277, 278, 278A
- Round trip: 18.8 miles / 30.3 km (Mt Antero and Mt White)
- Elevation: 9,400′ – 13,800′ / 2,865 m – 4,206 m
- County: Chaffee
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: San Isabel
From the end of the very steep road at 13,800′, it’s a 1/2 mile and 470′ climb to the 14,269′ summit of Mt Antero
Mt Antero 14,269′ on the (left), and Mt Princeton 14,197′ (center)
Mt Antero 14,269′ on the (left), and Mt Princeton 14,197′ (center)
Near the trailhead with Alpine Lake on the right
Near the trailhead with Alpine Lake on the right
View across Chalk Creek at an unnamed 12,800′ peak
View across Chalk Creek at an unnamed 12,800′ peak
A grove of Aspen trees ahead
A grove of Aspen trees ahead
Heading back down
Heading back down
At 13,800″ looking at the summit of Mt Antero
At 13,800″ looking at the summit of Mt Antero
View of Cronin Peak from PT 13,800′
View of Cronin Peak from PT 13,800′
View of Mt White from Mt Antero
View of Mt White from Mt Antero
Near the summit of PT 13,800′
Near the summit of PT 13,800′
The route to PT 13,800′ on Mt Antero
The route to PT 13,800′ on Mt Antero
View of Mt Antero from Mt White – summit on right
View of Mt Antero from Mt White – summit on right
4X4 adventure pilot
4X4 adventure pilot
Near the summit of Mt White looking east. The smoke is from the Decker fire.
Near the summit of Mt White looking east. The smoke is from the Decker fire.
Mt Shavano (14,229′) in back and Tabeguache (14,155′) right of center
Mt Shavano (14,229′) in back and Tabeguache (14,155′) right of center
The summit of Mt White (13,667′) ahead
The summit of Mt White (13,667′) ahead
Steep switchbacks on the west side of Mt Antero
Steep switchbacks on the west side of Mt Antero
Near the abrupt rock color transition from white to brown
Near the abrupt rock color transition from white to brown
A striking mineral transition from white to brown ahead
A striking mineral transition from white to brown ahead
Road 277 winding up the side of Mt Antero
Road 277 winding up the side of Mt Antero
Strong winds today above treeline made it hard to stand up outside
Strong winds today above treeline made it hard to stand up outside
View of Cronin Peak (13,870′) from the west side of Mt Antero
View of Cronin Peak (13,870′) from the west side of Mt Antero
The road climbs quickly once above treeline
The road climbs quickly once above treeline
Baldwin Gulch Junction – take a left for Mt Antero
Baldwin Gulch Junction – take a left for Mt Antero
RD 277 nearing the trailhead
RD 277 nearing the trailhead
The beginning of Road 277 in fall colors
The beginning of Road 277 in fall colors
The beginning of RD 277 was hit by an avalanche. The road was cleared but is very rough.
The beginning of RD 277 was hit by an avalanche. The road was cleared but is very rough.
Turn onto #277 jeep road (Baldwin Gultch) and drive 3 miles to a road junction at 10,850′. Turn left on the #278 road and cross Baldwin Creek.
Continue another mile to tree line as it climb’s Mt Antero’s west slopes. Stay left on 278A at the next 2 junction’s, reaching 13,200′.
From 13,200′ to 13,800′, the road becomes extremely steep with hairpin
switchbacks. You may want to consider parking here as most vehicles
wont make it. Continue up the steep south side to reach the end of the road, Point 13,800′.
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
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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 | Jul 5, 2019 | 4X4, Featured, Rocky Mountains, San Juan Range, Trip Reports
Hurricane Pass (12,730′) and California Pass (12,960′), San Juan Range
The National Water and Climate Center reported that the SWE (snow water equivalent) for the San Juan Mountains, including Hurricane Pass and California Pass, in May of 2019 was 728% above normal. It was such a heavy snow year that most of the back country at higher elevations was still buried in July. The heavy amounts of snow also caused a significant number of avalanches in the state. The only option out of Silverton to the Alpine Loop this July was to take SH 100 to Gladstone. Heavy avalanche debris still blocked the route to Animas Forks from Silverton using County Rd. 2.
Heading out of Silverton on SH 110, you pass Gladstone, which sits in a flat meadow where the five forks of Cement Creek meet. The town began in the late 1870’s from the surrounding mines including a sawmill just below the town site. As the mines grew, the sawmill was needed by other mines in the area, so a wagon road was graded up Cement Creek. In 1879 this wagon road went over Hurricane Pass and down Poughkeepsie Gulch as the route from Silverton to Ouray.
Today Poughkeepsie Gulch is generally for high clearance 4×4 vehicles that don’t mind a few road scars. The route today includes Hurricane and California Pass, and eventually leads down to Animas Forks.
The San Juan Mountains offer incredible outdoor beauty, including areas such as American Basin, Mt Sneffels, and Stony Pass.
Trail Stats
Hurricane / California Pass
This area is part of the Alpine Loop, a 4X4 lover’s dream. There are countless trails all leading to incredible alpine beauty and history.
Traffic jam near Silverton
Traffic jam near Silverton
Snow easing up as we loose elevation
Snow easing up as we loose elevation
Very narrow through much of the upper road
Very narrow through much of the upper road
Hurricane Pass, 12,674′, blew me away
Hurricane Pass, 12,674′, blew me away
The towering walls of snow
The towering walls of snow
California Pass, 12,960′
California Pass, 12,960′
Tuttle Mountain ridgeline from California Pass
Tuttle Mountain ridgeline from California Pass
View toward Hurricane Pass from California Pass, with frozen Como Lake below
View toward Hurricane Pass from California Pass, with frozen Como Lake below
A beautiful day, warm and and calm winds
A beautiful day, warm and and calm winds
View of Hurricane Peak rising above CR10
View of Hurricane Peak rising above CR10
California Pass, 12,960′
California Pass, 12,960′
Near the summit of California Pass
Near the summit of California Pass
Extensive snow coverage in early July
Extensive snow coverage in early July
Heading up to California Pass
Heading up to California Pass
Looking back at CR10 near Hurricane Pass
Looking back at CR10 near Hurricane Pass
View of Como Lake, near California Pass
View of Como Lake, near California Pass
15′-20′ walls of snow through snow drifts
15′-20′ walls of snow through snow drifts
It’s amazing that CR10 is open given the amount of snow
It’s amazing that CR10 is open given the amount of snow
Snowdrift Mine ore chute
Snowdrift Mine ore chute
Reaching deep snow drifts along CR10
Reaching deep snow drifts along CR10
Reaching treeline on CR10
Reaching treeline on CR10
Looking back at SH110 towards Silverton
Looking back at SH110 towards Silverton
CR10 starts out in great shape
CR10 starts out in great shape
View from SH110 above Silverton
View from SH110 above Silverton
Towering walls of snow on the way down
Towering walls of snow on the way down
View of California Gulch
View of California Gulch
Incredible views from the passes
Incredible views from the passes
Starting from Silverton, exit Highway 550 onto Greene St./Hwy 110
Continue on Hwy 110 through Silverton (1.2 Miles)
Turn left to stay on Hwy 110 (6.4 Miles)
Slight left onto County Rd 10/Hurricane Pass
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 | Jul 28, 2018 | Difficult Hikes, Featured, Rocky Mountains, Sangre de Cristo Range, Trip Reports
West Spanish Peak (13,625′), Sangre de Cristo Range
West Spanish Peak (13,625′) and East Spanish Peak (12,684′) have world class geological features that made the two peaks a National Natural Landmark in 1976 and designated as a Wilderness Area in 2000. The peaks rise 6,000 ft from the edge of the eastern plains, and were used as a navigation aid for centuries for people heading west.
The Spanish Peaks are world class examples of “stocks” and “dikes”. Stocks are large masses of igneous (molten) rock which forced their way into seams of the sedimentary rock which eroded more quickly over time. East Peak is a nearly circular stock about 5.5 miles long by 3 miles wide while West Peak is a stock about 2.75 miles long by 1.75 miles wide.
The other structures, hundreds of dikes which radiate out from the two mountains, were formed in the same way, but instead of a large pool of molten rock, the magma filled cracks in the soft sedimentary layer. Erosion wore away the softer sedimentary rock leaving dikes (walls) of granite rock up to 100′ high, 100′ wide, and 14 miles long. This scenic combination of two stocks (West Spanish Peak and East Spanish Peak) and hundreds of unique dikes is second to none with it’s size, diversity and beauty.
While in the area, just a short drive west on Hwy 160, is another geological wonder, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Zapata Falls, which lies just outside the park, is also a favorite.
Trail Stats
West Spanish Peak
While the Spanish Peaks are categorized as belonging to the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range, the are not geologically part of a chain of mountains, having been formed independently by different processes.
View along the upper trail
View along the upper trail
The trail flattens out near the summit
The trail flattens out near the summit
View of East Spanish Peak
View of East Spanish Peak
Summit of West Spanish Peak looking at East Spanish Peak
Summit of West Spanish Peak looking at East Spanish Peak
Heading back in the smoke filled air
Heading back in the smoke filled air
View of the dikes radiating out from the summit
View of the dikes radiating out from the summit
West Spanish Peak summit in the distance
West Spanish Peak summit in the distance
The final push to the summit over heavy talus
The final push to the summit over heavy talus
View down the steepest section of the trail
View down the steepest section of the trail
Heading up the steep slope
Heading up the steep slope
The view back
The view back
Large talus fields along the upper portion of the mountain
Large talus fields along the upper portion of the mountain
West Spanish Peak (13,625′) summit
West Spanish Peak (13,625′) summit
View of a dike from the summit
View of a dike from the summit
Dikes can be up to 14 miles long, 100′ tall, and 100′ wide
Dikes can be up to 14 miles long, 100′ tall, and 100′ wide
A section of dikes with less erosion around them
A section of dikes with less erosion around them
Large cairn just above treeline
Large cairn just above treeline
Through a meadow and into the forest
Through a meadow and into the forest
View of West Spanish Peak (13,265′)
View of West Spanish Peak (13,265′)
View of West Spanish Peak (13,265′)
View of West Spanish Peak (13,265′)
The view near treeline
The view near treeline
West Spanish Peak in the distance
West Spanish Peak in the distance
View to the west
View to the west
The trail after Vista Point
The trail after Vista Point
Smoke from wildfires creates an eerie sunrise
Smoke from wildfires creates an eerie sunrise
Early morning on the trail
Early morning on the trail
The Spanish Peaks are designated as National Natural Landmarks
The Spanish Peaks are designated as National Natural Landmarks
The first mile of the trail is very well maintained
The first mile of the trail is very well maintained
Trail register
Trail register
West Spanish Peak trailhead
West Spanish Peak trailhead
Dike radiating out from West Spanish Peak
Dike radiating out from West Spanish Peak
Dike near La Veta
Dike near La Veta
The trail is fairly level as it meanders through forests and meadows for about 2 miles (3.2 km) to treeline. At treeline there is a massive cairn signaling the beginning of the steep section of the trail. There is a rough path on talus (scree) up the southwest ridge of the peak for the 1.5 miles (2.4 km) of steep climbing. When in doubt stay to the left and close to the ridge, the climbing is on more solid footing.
Gaining the false summit, the actual summit comes into view, not far away and on much more even terrain. There is a cairn and large branch on the summit.
by mlz2000 | Jun 23, 2018 | 14er's, Difficult Hikes, Featured, Rocky Mountains, Sawatch Range, Trip Reports
La Plata Peak (14,336′), Sawatch Range
La Plata Peak is known for it’s distinctive Ellingwood Ridge, and is one of the highest 14,000′ peaks in Colorado. Traverseing the Southwest Ridge route, with Huron Peak and the Three Apostles providing a backdrop, makes for stunning scenery.
“La Plata” is Spanish for “The Silver”, a reference to the many silver deposits in the area. You can find remnants of old mines along the trail.
The Sawatch Mountain Range is home to fourteen other 14,000′ peaks, such as Huron Peak, Mt Antero, Missouri Mountain, and the highest peak in the Rocky Mountains, Mt Elbert.
Trail Stats
La Plata Peak
- Trailhead: West Winfield (Southwest Ridge)
- Round trip: 8 miles / 12.9 km
- Elevation: 10,778′ – 14,336′ / 3,285 m – 4,370 m
- County: Chaffee
- Agency: U.S. Forest Service
- Nat’l Forest: San Isabel
Approximately 1,000 feet of talus and boulders to gain the southwest ridge
Approximately 1,000 feet of talus and boulders to gain the southwest ridge
Pika near the summit
Pika near the summit
View of Sayres Peak (13,738′)
View of Sayres Peak (13,738′)
Gaining the southwest ridge requires climbing up a large boulder and talus field with a steep elevation gain
Gaining the southwest ridge requires climbing up a large boulder and talus field with a steep elevation gain
Near the top of the first ridge overlooking the valley leading to the trailhead
Near the top of the first ridge overlooking the valley leading to the trailhead
Steep slope leading to the first ridge
Steep slope leading to the first ridge
La Plata Peak southwest ridge with abandoned mining track. View of Huron Peak and the Three Apostles in the background.
La Plata Peak southwest ridge with abandoned mining track. View of Huron Peak and the Three Apostles in the background.
Heading out of the valley
Heading out of the valley
Sunrise in the valley
Sunrise in the valley
Morning sunlight on the trek ahead
Morning sunlight on the trek ahead
The trail skirts around some of the boggy areas
The trail skirts around some of the boggy areas
