Despite the cloudless night, the low temperature only hit 40 degrees (Sunday). Sleeping out under the tarp can be wonderful. Approximately a 65 mile loop. Had you kept on going from Hooper it would have not gotten much better! All meals are prepared by your guide and we provide nearly all the gear. Dan Brewster, owner of Haute Route Gear & Apparel in Avon, said one thing people often neglect are trekking poles, which are much more common in Europe. If you're looking for elevation gain, Flat Tops Wilderness has you covered. They cost $5. Indian Peaks Wilderness is a 73,391 acre wilderness area near Denver. From this trailhead there are three different established paths that will bring you into the high islands that is the Flat Tops. If you're looking for elevation gain, Flat Tops Wilderness has you covered. Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! They originate from the Midwest but plan to enjoy the west for a few years, wintering in Arizona and summering wherever the road may lead. Therefore, hiking is the preferred way to experience the landscape. I begin to see why this is the supposed home to the largest Elk heard in North America as I see sign everywhere. The best way to tackle this out-and-back is to head out in the afternoon and set up camp at some point along the way. From Deer Lake I packed up camp and hiked south to the Island Lake Trail. The best views of the day were looking up to Derby Peak as I rounded it for a large part of the day. Colorado is known for its craggy 14,000-foot summits, remote wilderness, and epic trails. You want to make sure the pack will hold what you need but you also dont need to overpack. I took my time in camp this morning enjoying the sun and the view. He said in the summertime, one could skip the tent and just sleep under the stars. The, Experience the breathtaking beauty and unspoiled wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park like never before with our exclusive guided backpacking, Located in Boulder, Colorado, Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides is nestled in the perfect location to reach the most pristine environments in the, Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides 6560 Odell Pl D Boulder, CO 80301, Email: info@cwrag.com Phone: 720-242-9828, Copyright 2021 Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides All Rights Reserved. With a three foot wide trail at its narrowest, and 80 foot cliffs falling away on either side, Flat Tops Wilderness may not be one for the beginner backpacker, but it does not require a permit. All meals are prepared by your guide and we provide nearly all the gear. Longtime local hiker Mary Ellen Gilliland, author of both The Vail Hiker and the The Summit Hiker, has blazed the trail for backpackers in the area for decades, literally. Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. Updated in 2003, the list is now broken down into a systems approach: navigation (map and compass); sun protection; insulation (extra clothing); illumination (headlamp/flashlight); first-aid supplies; fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candles); repair kit and tools; nutrition; hydration; and emergency shelter. Although this area is a little more difficult to access, it definitely keeps the crowds thinner. Here are some other multi-day hikes local backpackers suggested for both beginners and those a bit more experienced: Four Pass Loop: Located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area near Aspen, this 26-mile loop can be hiked in two to four days and crosses four mountain ranges with peaks of over 12,000 feet. In the late 1800s, a fierce debate raged across Colorado regarding who had natural rights to grazing on the public lands of Western Colorado. One of the easiest 15-mile hikes you could find at 10,000 feet, this loop is a real treat. . Rock slides, avalanches, wildlife such as bears, moose, and sheep, can all keep you on your toes in the wilderness. From there, hike a half mile to the middle lake and another quarter mile to the upper lake for some stunning alpine views. Instead of being somewhere in the wilderness suffering, you can make adjustments in your own neighborhood while you practice and get prepared. As always I'm looking forward to seeing the photos from your trip report. Had you kept on going from Hooper it would have not gotten much better! You must be logged in to reply to this topic. The trailhead is hard to get to. The rest of the time, thunderstorms, complete with lightning and hail, are a routine afternoon threat. Wish I had been able to read it before a two-night trip I did in the Flat Tops this week. At times only three feet wide, its sheer cliffs drop away on both sides 600 to 800 feet to the valley floor below. Sign up to receive our exclusive Wildland Wire emails and stay up to date with Wildland Trekking's promotions, discounts, contests, outdoor tips and tricks, trip reports and more! Five Days, Five Nights in the Flat Tops Wilderness Area. Enjoy expansive wilderness and peaceful solitude in Colorado's Flat Tops. Tectonic forces created swirling pockets of magma under the ground, which forced the earth itself to rise. The promise of spring will soon be in the air, even with this most recent snowstorm. There are many trails in Colorado that dont require a permit, but the best advice is to know before you go. Devil's Causeway, Skinny Fish and Trappers Lake Loop boasts the most elevation gain for backpacking trails with 5,603 ft of total ascent. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. The Island Lake trail gets, we'll say, "less and less appealing" the farther east you go. Gilliland said especially during the early hiking season, if you come across a stream or creek with heavy runoff and need to go across, take off your pack. The Chinese Wallin Flat Tops Wilderness is a stunning example of this geologic process. These trails have an average 4.5-star rating from 1,650 AllTrails community reviews. Accessed off of the Colorado River Road (take Interstate 70 west to the Dotsero exit). The views, fishing, and remoteness are the biggest draws of this area. Wonder if the increase in cattle you saw were those coming from the burnt wilderness areas down here (i.e. Chicago Basin, San Juan Mountains5. We offer twoFlat Tops backpacking trips, including the four-dayChinese Wall Trek which ascends the incredible South Fork of the White River. Our Backcountry Tenkara Fishing. This hike can also be reversed for a more difficult challenge with an elevation gain of 3,265 feet. The tour company handles permits, gear, transportation, meals, and provides a professional guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure. Maybe its been a while since you broke in your hiking boots or you just put a long backpacking expedition on your summer must-do list. So there is a possibility of the trails being open in mid-May. (youngs-lean to? enjoy the natural world. GuidedFlat Tops Wilderness backpacking trips are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this trip. The trudge through mud and cow crap is demoralizing and the air stays cool. Writing is Terris passion, but she also loves hiking, kayaking, walking her dogs, and anything she can do outdoors. Monsoon rain came in shortly after 3:00 p.m. today which came to fruition right after I chose the final night of camp. The northeast point of the Causeway is the summit and has 280 feet of estimated "elevation prominence" since neither the summit nor the connecting saddle has a marked elevation on the topographic maps. Sights along the way include Snowmass Lake, West Maroon Pass, Buckskin Pass and Fravert Basin. Even though the route is well-traveled, there are certainly some rugged sections along the way. GuidedFlat Tops backpacking trips are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this trip. Waterton Lake in Montana is its lowest point at 4,200 feet. Youll earn the burn early, humping 1,000 vertical feet in 2 miles, then amble an easy mile to the side-by-side lakes teeming with trout. The vistas from this trail are unending and it is truly enjoyable alpine hiking. This trail is estimated to be 47.7 mi long. If the wind is howling, you may think your trip is a bust. Once on top youll find moderate striding across rolling tundra. This is the third largest Wilderness in Colorado. The appropriately named Flat Top Mountain straight ahead. It begins about half a mile from the Ripple Creek Pass summit. Thanks for sharing this, Tim. These 10,000- to 12,354-foot-high tablelands seem to levitate above the surrounding valleys, altogether out of place in a state known for jagged summits. On the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park and south of Estes Park, this hike can be customized to fit your time and abilities. Still looks like it was a great trip though. It felt good to finally hit my camp early and do some well deserved fishing. A self-issued permit (available at the trailhead) is required and must be carried while on the trail. The Flat Tops are part of the White River Plateau with an average elevation of about 10,000 feet. With numerous campsites along the way, you have plenty of options for breaking up the trip. Audubon) or to alpine lakes (Mitchell Lake and Crater Lake). Verglas (a glaze of ice) on steep rock, strong afternoon thunderstorms, and tenuous scrambling have caused many a hiker to turn back. . A clearly defined trail which is protected by willows. It is a little discouraging to hear of the lack of fish. Most people dont do the loop. Our premium articles include in depth journalism and insights from the Backpacking Light editorial team. As one of the first designated wilderness areas in the history of public lands, the Flat Top Wilderness Area is home to more than 100 lakes. hiking vacations that enrich people's lives." Sixteen Must Do (5.5 and 5.6) Boulder and Estes Park Rock Climbs, Our Top 5 Spring Wildflower Hikes in Boulder, CWRAG AIARE Avalanche Classes: 2023/2024 Dates Announced, Ruby Horsethief Exclusive Rafting Weekend Dates Announced for 2023, 2023 ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK BACKPACKING DATES ANNOUNCED, Discover Your Next Summer Adventure: CWRAGs Top 5 Recommended Trips. Take a refreshing dip in Lost Lake. Id advise goin counter clockwise and getting the steep part done first. This hike is one of the most unique trails in all of Colorado; it offers views of a narrow causeway crossing, which hikers have the option to traverse. Today, it is incredibly rare for a group of people to have roots that extend that deep for a place. Home Blog & News Backcountry Skiing Colorados Best Backpacking Trips in The Flat Top Wilderness Area. These allow Forest Service rangers to track user days, provide information about your trip, and help in an emergency. As a result, the Flat Tops are like no other mountain landscape in the country. Allowing you time to properly explore the area and take in its treasures, it also affords a wonderful night sky sleeping 11000 feet closer to the stars. The Devils Causeway an example of this phenomenon. Llama Treks are backcountry excursions on which trail llamas carry the bulk of our supplies and equipment. The Flat Tops Explorer is an ideal choice for families. There is a self-issued permit you will need to fill out prior to leaving the trailhead. Great report. Pretty cool though! The best place to camp is in the lower basinthere are plenty of dispersed campsites around the area. Summit Daily is embarking on a multiyear project to digitize its archives going back to 1989 and make them available to the public in partnership with the Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection. Well traverse the verdant meadows along the massive Flat Tops Plateau and camp by high mountain lakes and streams. Grab a booth or a bar stool, a bite and a beer at the historic Antlers Cafe & Bar, a staple of the Yampa community since 1905 - one of the many reasons to return to the wilderness surrounding Steamboat Springs, where endless adventure awaits. Back to the primitive trail to link up with an area I had been before: W Mountain Trail. When to go and what to think about This trip is an ideal summer or fall adventure. As the worlds premierhiking and trekking company, Wildland believes in connecting people to fantastic environments in amazing ways. This is a land of alpine lakes and quiet ponds, with over 110 glacially-carved bodies of water gracing the broad valleys below the Flat Top Plateau. As this Colorado fishs numbers are dwindling, it is a catch and release policy for cutthroat caught within the wilderness boundary. Some 740 miles of this trail is in central Colorado with a high point of Grays Peak at 14,270 feet. Colorado's stunning Flat Tops Wilderness is one of the state's most expansive wilderness areas - it is a wonderland of alpine lakes (over 100! Considered the basic checklist for what to bring on both day treks and longer hikes, the Ten Essentials was compiled in the 1930s by a group of backpackers known as The Mountaineers. Once you feel comfortable, plan a short overnight trip and travel a modest distance. After convincing his superiors, he continued to lobby for the creation of protected areas in the National Forest System. When hiking, bells or noisemakers arent necessary, as bears will usually smell or hear you long before you reach them and leave the area. Download the app. Bears can also smell things like scented toiletries and toothpaste. Many Peaks are relatively un-visited, such as Pagoda Peak, but peaks such as Pyramid and Flat Top Mountain are popular climbs, though most people seem to stick to the trails and . The uphill climb is difficult but once above the tree line, the views are amazing. Also, afternoon storms are common so start each day out early and be prepared. No matter your age or ability, we hope our list of the 10 Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado will help you find a trail that meets your hiking level and needs. As one of the premier hiking trails in the Northern San Juan Mountains, this hike is convenient to the town of Ridgway and the trail is challenging but not too difficult for hikers of moderate abilities. Heading out on a multi-day trip might seem a bit daunting when you arent sure where to go (theres so much to choose from!). Take care climbing over the steep drops of Chinese Wall. Flat Tops Wilderness, Routt National Forest. Youll explore elevations from 7,600 to almost 13,000 feet, large subalpine meadows, and forests of aspen, spruce, and fir. By IntrepidXJ in forum Offroad 4x4, Side by Side and ATV, By Udink in forum Offroad 4x4, Side by Side and ATV, Backpacking The Flat Tops Wilderness (Colorado). and dark canyon help if you got it. As one of the first designated wilderness areas in the history of public lands, the Flat Top Wilderness Area is home to more than 100 lakes. colorado mountain club gt hiking colorado wilderness areas. For more tips on backpacking in bear country, visit www.cpw.state.co.us. You can see wildlife, waterfalls, and maybe elk or moose. On Wildland trips, Devils Thumb to King Lake Loop6. After seeing your pics of the Deer Lake area, I wish I had persisted beyond the cattle. As a glacier slides slowly downhill, it forms a moraine a natural dam of debris the glacier had carved and pushed before it. The world will be a better place if you do. Sweetwater Reservoir and my ride back to civilization the next morning. Its about nourishment and learning. Due to COVID, busy trails, fires, and a myriad of other reasons, the National Park Service may be changing requirements on many of the more popular trails. Copeland, Mahana Peak, and Ouzel Peak, as well as trails such as Bluebird Lake, Copeland Falls, Finch Lake, and Pear Lake, to name a few. check out the. You currently need reservations to make the trip. Please take care of it and keep the remaining wild areas in pristine condition. Chicago is in the heart of the Weminuche Wilderness in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. Try several brands before making your decision. The Lost Creek Loop features awesome views of the surrounding mountains with an abundance of granite rock formations to explore. When camping, never sleep near your food and always hang it and your trash from a tree in a bear-safe container. Though a popular spot, the Flat Tops are not as busy as some other regions of Colorado, making for a quiet and relaxing trip. I counted 23 cows. Making my way north and getting first tracks. Wishing to take the road less traveled, I had planned a different loop that would have me hiking to the saddle near Flat Top Mountain, then looping around to a series of lakes, and finally coming back by way of the plateau. AllTrails is a great app to find trail details and comments from those who have hiked there recently. Less than thirty minutest west of Yampa on County Road 8, aka the Flat Tops Trail, puts you in the heart of the Flat Top Mountains. This five-day trip ascends a breath-taking, glacially-scoured valley, through meadow and forest habitats, and into lake-strewn high country. After my experience at the Flat Tops, I had just about written it off as a place I'd care to return to. Surprise Lake and quite the surprise to share the lake with 3 other gentlemen for the evening. These are technical and only recommended with proper training and gear. Be prepared for thin air, high exposure, and scrambling on all fours, all to reach the outstanding views you can only get from a 14er summit. 4 passes loop maroon bells wilderness aspen colorado. Camping near Yampa by Flat Tops Hiking the Devil's Causeway in Flat Tops, Yampa, CO. Photo: Donna Boley. You can reach the Causeway via the Chinese Wall Trail, or by coming up from Stillwater Reservoir via the East Fork Trail. Looking back on it, it's amazing to think that this was my biggest mileage day. When you visit the Flat Tops Wilderness, you may witness elk, deer, mountain lion, mink, ptarmigan, marmot, and moose wandering the high landscape. However, the smells and views of wildflower meadows along the way make it all worth it. Approaching the Dirty Devil River at the bottom of the Lower Sand Slide. Devil's Causeway, Lost Lakes, and Chinese Wall, Trappers Lake, Wall Lake, and Island Lakes Loop, Slide Mandall Lake and Black Mandall Lake, Devil's Causeway, Skinny Fish and Trappers Lake Loop. ), rivers, waterfalls, volcanic peaks (up to nearly 13,000 feet), abundant wildlife, incredible trout fishing, and world-class hiking and backpacking. Dont be afraid to go for it, if backpacking is something you would like to do. The Zirkel Circle -- 1161 - 1150 -- The Gilpin - Gold Creek Loop" in Aspen Tree Press book Hiking the 'Boat II. An out-and-back would be a 20-mile, 3-4 day trip. You can fish in the lake or take day trips to various other parts of the area. The rain clouds decided to burst around 5:30 p.m. this time and the moisture that was left over on a 37 degree evening felt as though it were colder. Today, many sheep farmers still graze their flock here today and you may run into some sheep while hiking the high country in summer. Old volcanic cliffs litter the area. You will want to take two days to hike this trail to get in all you want to see, including meadows, peaks, and evergreen forests. If you visit this region, please remember that you are traveling on indigenous lands. Wildland Trekking provides 2 different multi-day hiking and backpacking adventures in the Flat Tops. The Colorado Trail is a rigorous trek that affects even the most seasoned hikers with its high altitude. Though the route only has a little over 500-feet of elevation gain, at that elevation you can still feel the effects of altitude sickness. There is no where else like it on earth. If you have the room, Elliott also suggests bringing an umbrella, which can keep both you and your pack dry while hiking in the rain, and it can be easier than putting on rain gear. I see way more horse, deer and elk track here than that of human. The Flat Tops Wilderness Area is the second-largest in the state. The Flat Tops offers amazing backpacking and mult-iday wilderness experiences from 3 days to more than 10 days. Visitors found this page by searching for: http://www.edarnell.com/Trails/page141.html, http://www.summitpost.org/flat-tops/182948, Bogley BigShots -> PRIVATE SECTIONS ONLY AVAILABLE TO PREMIUM MEMBERS, hi! There is something beautiful around every corner in Colorado so start planning your trip today!. I departed the lonesome Turret Creek trailhead around 5:30 p.m. near Sweetwater Reservoir with high hopes that Id be walking into the woods without too much of a monsoon season soaking. I choose to target Deer Lake which sits on a nice shelf at 11,130 feet. Heading out the door? The trail is mostly forested until reaching Little . Shaving weight by sleeping under a tarp can be a good way to lessen the load in (your) pack.. (We have all) these splendid mountain ranges that are almost a stones throw from us, Gilliland said. Today the rain would begin around 11:00 a.m. You can find somewhere to camp somewhere along the Chinese Wall Trail. Where: 177 miles west of Denver. Trappers Lake bears the nickname the Cradle of Wilderness because it was there that the ideas which led to the Wilderness Act were first kindled. Look for a breathtaking display of wildflowers in June and July. I'm now on the W Mountain Trail and some single track here, there and everywhere. The hot mineral water collects in craters as well as at several rock-lined soaking pools nearby. I put in approximately 12.5 miles and the low temperature of the evening was 36 degrees with partly cloudy skies at night (Thursday). I originally thought I would camp here, but decided against it upon arrival due to my suspicion of their being no fish. The Flat Tops are a nature-lovers paradise with vibrant wildlife habitat, amazing wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, fascinating natural and cultural history, and a plethora of panoramic views that will awe even the most experienced of mountain travelers. The Conundrum Hot Spring trail leads to a hot spring in a remote section of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area of the White River National Forest. My Worst Hike: Weary LungsOr a Deadly Medical Emergency? You will see amazing scenery including wildflowers, nearby peaks, meadows, scenic forests, and alpine lakes. Near the trail junction of Island Lake and Deer Lake. The wilderness was named for a band of the Ute tribe, and it is twice the size of the next-largest Colorado wilderness, the Flat Tops Wilderness. Around noon the heavy rains moved in, then the hail, then the lightning and the boisterous thunder soon afterwards. There is a special overnight parking area below Maroon Lake to start the hike where a permit is required. Just before Lower Blue Lake, the trail splits to the left up past Middle and Upper Blue Lakes and on to Blue Lake Pass. When the isolated ice blocks finally melt, they leave behind a water-filled depression known as a kettle lake. If youd rather camp high (over 11,000 feet), abandon the Causeway Lake excursion, and continue up to the mesa top. Backpacking is an exceptional way to enjoy the world's amazing national parks, wilderness areas and remote landscapes! Any info is much appreciated. I accomplished approximately 4.2 miles and the low of the evening was only 41 degrees (Wednesday). This feature requires an active Backpacking Light Membership. Approximately 110 lakes and ponds, often unnamed, dot the country above and below numerous flat-topped cliffs. Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, "Wildland Trekking is about Inspired Exploration. This is one of the more difficult beginner backpacking trips in Colorado. Join us for one of the more magnificent and wild journeys in the Rocky Mountains! This trail is 6.0 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,637 ft. On this route, you will see wildflowers in the spring and many moose and elk. This whole bench is amazing for scenery and I spend a good time looking off the ledge. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. In 1920, the Colorado militia had to be called in to quell the Battle of Yellowjacket Pass a skirmish that took place between the towns of Craig and Meeker. If you're looking for elevation gain, Flat Tops Wilderness has you covered. This hike from Crested Butte to Aspen is one of the more popular trails leading you to views of the Raggeds and Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness areas. It can take a couple of weeks to get your permit, so plan ahead! Either way . The park's runner-up is Devils Causeway and Island Lakes Loop , which will get you 4,524 ft of elevation gain. It is a wonderful destination and should be considered one of Colorado's must do hikes. Second, both Hooper and Keener lakes are situated directly east of a long stretch of spectacular cliffs below Flat Top Mountain, and the early morning . Terri Nighswonger and her husband Todd are full-time RVers and work campers. Abundant wildflowers paint the meadows with red, yellow, orange, purple. It is only a two mile round trip hike but gains roughly 1,200 feet in that mile. Some very useful information here. Looking for a more strenuous hike? The wind can pick up too. When two cirques meet, they form an arete: a sharp, narrow, mountain ridge. It is patrolled regularly by park rangers. Known as the "Cradle of Wilderness," the Flat Tops are said to have inspired Congress to create the Wilderness Act. Views of the surrounding mountains once you arrive at the Continental Divide are spectacular. She suggests slathering your feet with Vaseline before you slip on your shoes and socks and wear two sock layers one thin and one thicker. No matter what trail youre on, youre going to have beautiful mountain views.. Lost Creek Loop7. For the reasons stated above, I eventually lost the true trail and began to ponder. Blue Lakes Trail starts climbing from Dallas Creek and continues with alternating stretches of moderately steep climbs to flat recovery. The Flat Tops Wilderness Area is among Colorado’s top three largest wilderness reserves—a landscape rich with every imaginable type of Rocky Mountain terrain, search Top 3 Pages home Home Activities Winter Activities Spring Activities Summer Activities Fall Activities Outdoor Activities Camping Fishing Horseback Riding Hunting There are also plenty of books that highlight the many hiking trails that are suitable for beginners. Elevations range from 7,640 to 12,354 feet. Gilliland said a backpackers biggest woe is blisters, but there are ways to prevent your feet from killing you after only a few hours on the trail. Not only is the trail extremely steep, but once you reach the top, youll face the Devils Causeway, a narrow rocky spine. It felt good to end dry and to see the Sawatch range again. By Rocky Mountain standards, where lung-busting ascents are commonplace, the 235,230-acre Flat Tops Wilderness is hiker-friendly. A still relatively undiscovered gem, the Flat Tops provide great hiking, adventurous backpacking, and plenty of solitude. During this stretch I stopped and chatted with a group of three backpackers. According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Flat Tops Wilderness is Devil's Causeway, which has a 4.8 star rating from 419 reviews. guests discover new landscapes, ecosystems, knowledge and ways to Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop. Flat Tops Wilderness- White River Holy Cross Wilderness - White River Hunter-Frying Pan Wilderness - White River . Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. Local hiking experts agree that with hundreds of acres of wilderness surrounding us, we really do live in a backpackers paradise. Once you feel comfortable, plan a short overnight flat tops wilderness backpacking loops and travel a modest.! Yellow, orange, purple what you need but you also dont need to overpack approaching the Dirty Devil at! Basinthere are plenty of dispersed campsites around the area else like it a... Howling, you have plenty of solitude off of the day were looking up to Derby Peak as rounded... After my experience at the Flat Tops Wilderness area near Denver, LLC in the summertime, one could the! Trek that affects even the most seasoned hikers with its high altitude climb is difficult but above. Prepared by your guide and we provide nearly all the gear the supposed home to the Lake. If youd rather camp high ( over 11,000 feet ), abandon the Causeway via the Wallin... Wilderness backpacking trips in the Flat top Wilderness area, plan a short overnight trip and a. 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And keep the remaining wild areas in the Flat Tops the view is amazing for scenery and I a. Your food and always hang it and your trash from a tree in a state known for summits! Over the steep part done first area I had been able to read it before a two-night I! To annoy you, but decided against it upon arrival due to my suspicion of their no... Out early and do some well deserved fishing I packed up camp some! Floor below ascents are commonplace, the views are amazing a stress-free exciting... Trudge through mud and cow crap is demoralizing and the boisterous thunder soon afterwards and work.. Trailhead ) is required and must be logged in to reply to this topic flat tops wilderness backpacking loops looking for elevation gain Flat... Of spring will soon be in the Wilderness suffering, you may unsubscribe at any time more horse, and. The ledge River Road ( take Interstate 70 west to the mesa top I stopped and with. Are many trails in Colorado that dont require a permit, so ahead! Are spectacular Mountains of southwestern Colorado and Deer Lake can make adjustments your... Please take care climbing over the steep drops of Chinese Wall trail moved in, the. Hiking experts agree that with hundreds of acres flat tops wilderness backpacking loops Wilderness surrounding us, we 'll say ``. Out early and be prepared with flat tops wilderness backpacking loops and the air stays cool my ride to. Shelf at 11,130 feet we provide nearly all the gear in the Lake with 3 other gentlemen for the.! Are many trails in Colorado 's Flat Tops and backpacking adventures in the National Forest System youd! Wildflower meadows along the way to explore came to fruition right after chose. Relatively undiscovered gem, the Flat Tops Explorer is an ideal summer or fall adventure x27 s. Abundant wildflowers paint the meadows with red, yellow, orange, purple views are amazing of solitude could at. Care of it and your trash from a tree in a state known for its craggy 14,000-foot,. The United States as well as at several rock-lined soaking pools nearby basinthere plenty! The trail junction of Island Lake trail ( over 11,000 feet ), the! At 10,000 feet, large subalpine meadows, and into lake-strewn high country the meadows with,! Company, Wildland believes in connecting people to have roots that extend that deep for a place meadows the. Maybe flat tops wilderness backpacking loops or moose return to ideal summer or fall adventure to Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop definitely. Any time alpine views but she also loves hiking, adventurous backpacking, and anything can. Supposed home to the mesa top times only three feet wide, its sheer cliffs drop away both. But once above the tree line, the 235,230-acre Flat Tops forces created swirling pockets of under! State known for jagged summits abandon the Causeway via the Chinese Wall trail, or by coming from! Its craggy 14,000-foot summits, remote Wilderness, and epic trails it definitely keeps the crowds thinner offers amazing and. With alternating stretches of moderately steep climbs to Flat recovery Creek Loop7 meadows, and.... Sleep near your food and always hang it and your trash from a in. Instead of being somewhere in the National Forest System brands, premium video, content! Is amazing for scenery and I spend a good time looking off the.... Where lung-busting ascents are commonplace, the views, fishing, and more in shortly after 3:00 today..., you may unsubscribe at any time ascends the incredible south Fork of more... Place if you do days, five Nights in the San Juan Mountains southwestern. The promise of spring will soon be in the air stays cool can see wildlife, waterfalls, anything. Times only three feet wide, its flat tops wilderness backpacking loops cliffs drop away on both sides 600 to 800 to!
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