On this hike, you will also need to make sure you have shuttle arrangements unless you want to hike back to the Crested Butte trailhead. Twin Lakes makes a great stopping point on the way down for a quick dip after a long day of hiking. Audubon) or to alpine lakes (Mitchell Lake and Crater Lake). A more moderate challenge is a hike to Twin Lakes to get views of the mountains surrounding the valley. Check out some of these popular trails, tips, and cautions below before you load up your backpack and head out. Vail and Beaver Creek may be synonymous with great skiing, but those who only see the valley as a map of ski runs are missing out on experiencing the mountains by traversing trails that wind, curve and take you to sights no gondola ride can match. While you are getting ready physically for your hike, make sure you will be carrying the proper gear. The best time to go is from late June to early September. For the reasons stated above, I eventually lost the true trail and began to ponder. 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. He was to map out a plan for a marina, a road around the lake, and 100 homes. As always I'm looking forward to seeing the photos from your trip report. Four Pass Loop - West Maroon to Buckskin Grizzly Lake #1990 Hell Roaring #1960 Lost Man #1996 Maroon-Snowmass #1975 . By Rocky Mountain standards, where lung-busting ascents are commonplace, the 235,230-acre Flat Tops Wilderness is hiker-friendly. Cattlemen were the first to begin grazing animals in the area, so they were wholly against what they saw as an invasion of sheep herds onto their land. When the isolated ice blocks finally melt, they leave behind a water-filled depression known as a kettle lake. This is a great hike, not only for beginners but for families as well. The Ute people, who trace their ancestry in Colorado back 10,000 years, were driven from the area after a bloody confrontation in 1879. Didnt need three points of contact on any part of it. I can see a sheep herd off in the distance first and then their noise. The lower elevation means it is good for early and late-season outings. Lost Lakes, Devils Causeway, Flat Tops Wilderness Area Distance: 22.3 miles (loop) Walking time: day 1: 4 1/4 hours day 2: 3 1/4 hours day 3: 8 1/4 hours Elevations: 3,330 ft. gain/loss Stillwater Trailhead (start): 10,280 ft. Causeway Lake: 10,420 ft. West Lost Lake: 10,296 ft. Devils Causeway: 11,800 ft. I saw a tall Buck run away and a Red Tail Hawk patrol the low hanging ridges. Want to find the best trails in Flat Tops Wilderness for an adventurous hike or a family trip? Look for a breathtaking display of wildflowers in June and July. Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. You can find somewhere to camp somewhere along the Chinese Wall Trail. At times only three feet wide, its sheer cliffs drop away on both sides 600 to 800 feet to the valley floor below. There are so many beautiful hikes in Colorado it is unbelievable. This unique mountain range rises in a broad plateau a massive upsurge of volcanic rock, planed level over the ages, and broken by mountain spires rising nearly a thousand feet. Colorados Best Backpacking Trips in The Colorados Flat Top Wilderness Area Getaway from the crowds andexperience solitude andwilderness. But after reading your trip report, I think I'll give it another chance. Explore some of the side trails and reach spots that other backpackers on this loop dont do, such as Geneva Lake, Maroon Peak, or Pyramid Peak. The Devil's Causeway has been on my hiking to-do list for years. Flat Tops Wilderness: Once you get up to the Flat Tops, this area is hiker-friendly and provides a change of scenery from the jagged peaks were used to. I took my time in camp this morning enjoying the sun and the view. Elevations and difficulties of the sections vary but backpackers can hike any part of its 486 miles. Pretty cool though! Devils Thumb to King Lake Loop6. Llamas also make wonderful trail companions. Download the app. Near the trail junction of Island Lake and Deer Lake. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference. He was so struck by the landscape that he informed his superiors the land should be set aside, protected, and preserved for generations. Flat Tops Wilderness- White River Holy Cross Wilderness - White River Hunter-Frying Pan Wilderness - White River . The Zirkel Circle -- 1161 - 1150 -- The Gilpin - Gold Creek Loop" in Aspen Tree Press book Hiking the 'Boat II. 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 . their lives enriched, by the wonders of our amazing planet. Abundant wildflowers paint the meadows with red, yellow, orange, purple. Home Forums Campfire Member Trip Reports 65 Mile Loop Flat Tops Wilderness, CO. Five Days, Five Nights in the Flat Tops Wilderness Area. Encompassed by the larger White River National Forest, it comprises some 235,406 acres and features volcanic cliffs, subalpine lakes, and alpine tundra. Eventually, the Taylor Grazing Service was created to oversee grazing on public lands. Thanks for your support! A relatively undiscovered gem, it offers an experience of solitude and serenity not easily matched in Colorados more well-known areas like Summit County, the Durango area and the Front Range. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. While the loop can be hiked more quickly, it's enjoyably done over three days, especially if you have in mind adding in another three miles or so roundtrip to take a side hike up 11,879-foot Big. Make sure you know certain restrictions that you must follow for this wilderness area which specify no motorized or mechanical transport of any kind is allowed. Though it would be a bit chillier, an autumn trip to Grand Mesa amidst the changing aspen leaves is something to behold. The hot mineral water collects in craters as well as at several rock-lined soaking pools nearby. Its about more than standing on the mountain top. A bear-proof container for your provisions is required. It is difficult to get to, remote, rugged, and it summits all four 14ers in Chicago Basin. If you want to camp at a lower elevation, head down the other side and make your way to Causeway Lake for the night. The weekend of August 1, 2008, Tracy and I headed to the Flat Tops Wilderness in Colorado for a three day hiking trip. For example, the Navajo have occupied their iconic four-corners region for centuries, but their ancestors migrated from more northern locales. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. On a Wednesday towards the end of a four-hour meeting at work, I stared out the window of the overcast sky as it began to open up to slivers of blue. They can help you to know the difficulty of trails, water sources, and campsite locations so you can determine the best route. The sky continues to stay overcast. A Membership is required to post in the forums. Plus, waking up in an alpine meadow chock full of wildflowers is beyond the scope of the imagination. Therefore, hiking is the preferred way to experience the landscape. Flagstaff, Arizona 86004, "Wildland Trekking is about Inspired Exploration. Colorado has many amazing outdoor and wilderness gems, but the Flat Top Wilderness Area, located in White River National Forest is truly a gem. The upper sections of this route can be hazardous, especially when the weather starts to turn. The Rawah Wilderness is a beautiful backpacking loop located about 2 hours west of Fort Collins, CO. On the Chinese Wall Loop trail, you will be over 11,000 feet in elevation. Use the links below to share this content: Viewing 7 posts - 1 through 7 (of 7 total), New Masterclass! Looking back on it, it's amazing to think that this was my biggest mileage day. Read more about our Colorado backpacking trips. Cattle ranchers began committing racially-motivated acts of violence against Hispanic sheepherders. The uphill climb is difficult but once above the tree line, the views are amazing. On this 27 mile adventure, you will traverse peaks, valleys, glaciers, and marshy meadows. Any info is much appreciated. The Flat Tops Wilderness Area is the second-largest in the state. Take your time and enjoy the summit, but make sure youre heading down by noon at the latest. The most historic clash between colonizers and the Ute people, dubbed the Meeker Massacre, took place outside of the present-day town of Meeker. Despite the preparedness needed for Colorado backpacking, sleeping out in the alpine is one of the most memorable experiences you can have. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. If you make a purchase using our links in this article, we may make a commission. We asked some local hiking experts to share their favorite backpacking trails and give some tips and tricks theyve had to learn the hard way, so we dont have to do it. Explore one of 5 easy hiking trails in Flat Tops Wilderness that are great for the whole family. Fortunately I escaped any dogs. 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. Join Outside+ to get access to exclusive content, 1,000s of training plans, and more. 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. An easy going trail and a little solitude. Our goal is for people to be inspired, and their lives enriched, by the wonders of our amazing planet. The uphill climb is difficult but once above the tree line, the views are amazing. 3.0 + approach . Backpacking Day Hiking There are numerous hiking opportunities at White River National Forest from short interpretive day hikes, to longer more difficult treks. This one's for you. In the vicinity are Mt. Some 740 miles of this trail is in central Colorado with a high point of Grays Peak at 14,270 feet. Devil's Causeway, Skinny Fish and Trappers Lake Loop boasts the most elevation gain for backpacking trails with 5,603 ft of total ascent. Begin your hike at Hessie Trail. Wildland Trekking handles permits, gear, transportation, meals, and provides a professional guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure. Flat Tops Wilderness. On my way in, just outside the Wilderness boundary I crossed the paths of two men on horseback. Llama Treks are backcountry excursions on which trail llamas carry the bulk of our supplies and equipment. The promise of spring will soon be in the air, even with this most recent snowstorm. Backcountry Tenkara Fishing. The United States Congress designated the Flat Tops Wilderness in 1975, and it now has a total of 235,214 acres. It is patrolled regularly by park rangers. Its worth spending a few days acclimating to the altitude before heading out on a trek, especially one that requires climbing up to 12-14,000 feet. Though the narrow section may have your heart in your throat, its the 360-degree views that will leave you breathless. Backcountry camping is allowed on Lower Blue Lake. Thanks for sharing this, Tim. These can be picked up at Headquarters Wilderness Office or can be acquired online. Most local trails closed for elk calving and wildlife protection opened back up on June 15, with all trails open by July 1. Frequently asked trail questions about Flat Tops Wilderness. This is the third largest Wilderness in Colorado. All meals are prepared by your guide and we provide nearly all the gear. AllTrails is a great app to find trail details and comments from those who have hiked there recently. And difficulties of the most memorable experiences you can determine the best trails in Flat Wilderness! 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