Here is one group’s record of their time riding the Backpacking Train and hiking around the Chicago Basin. God knows the spirit of John Denver wants you to go take a hike out to a great waterfall every now and then. It is possible to day hike this trail, however, you should spend the night here. Colorado Trail: Solo Backpacking in 2018. But the thought of going overnight into the mountains, especially solo, is not too appealing for some. Segment 6, segments in the San Juans, and the Sawatch Range are a few of the most beautiful parts of the trail. The Buchanan Creek / Cascade Creek Trail split around 3.5 miles is a great place to set up camp if you get … The Needles District, Canyonlands National Park. Being a Responsible Backpacker in Colorado. Here's where to stay during your next visit. You’ll likely want to camp at the water source, below the final climb. Solo backpacking in Pike National Forest, Colorado. At an average elevation of 10,300 feet, there will still be plenty of snow on high peaks in the summertime, and afternoon storms remain a threat. I’ve lived in Colorado for over a decade and I’ve had the privilege of going on some amazing backpacking trips in Colorado. Colorado backpacking trips in the Weminuche Wilderness, Lizard Head Wilderness, San Juan National Forest, and more. Follow his adventures and stories at betterhiker.com. In fact, I doubt I will be going hiking alone again in my life. A couple of details: -Looking for something about 5 days long -Looking for something that is moderate to difficult, but not ridiculous -We would like to have some periods of solitude, but are realistic we will run into others. Bear cans are required on this popular loop. After decades of wilderness solo backpacking -- including many off-trail sojourns -- fully recognize that it carries increased risks -- but as Emerson once pointed out -- going solo (into the woods) offers the best opportunity for "solitary converse with nature." Elevation gain: … Follow all drone regulations. Be in a good shape. … Attempting a thru-hike earlier in the year means you’ll be navigating over some serious snowpack, and in the fall you’ll get overwhelmed by dangerous, earth-shaking thunderstorms. Backpacking is a past time that many people, especially once moving to Colorado, are curious to try. Ten unmatched miles each. I’d highly recommend picking up the Colorado Trail Guide book and Field Guide. Arthur loves to walk. Book a weekend stay in one of these unique vacation rentals, and you'll quickly see how Montana earned its nickname of the Big Sky State. This is the United State’s highest thru-hike, with a majority of the trail above 10,000 feet. The transition to solo hiking was also one of trust—trusting that I was capable of exploring on my own safely and confidently. These trips will require backpacks, tents, sleeping bags and other gear and food that you will be carrying on your back needed to keep you fed, warm and dry. Waterfalls are awesome and Colorado has a shit-load of them. UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT. The Colorado Rockies are the ideal escape for a little self-exploration. Next, walk a 1/2 mile from the train stop (you’ll purchase a backpacker’s ticket, it’ll be obvious when to jump off) and then continue 6 more miles to the Chicago Basin. 1. Local Tip: Don’t forget, you’re in the desert and you’ll need to pack in all of your water. Hop on the iconic CDT  as it makes its way from Mexico to Canada, crossing through the state of Colorado. If you insist on hiking alone, I advise that you bring a satellite phone. Length. A solo hike can also lead you into dangerous situations, so prepare for the worst. The sky-piercing Lone Eagle Peak is an absolute icon and the surrounding dramatic cirque will take your breath away. If you can stomach 6 miles of road walking, the Rito Alto Four Pass Loop is an amazing, crowd-free affair in the mighty Sangre de Cristos. … Rocky Mountain National Park. Trekking poles can help tired knees. Solo backpacking is something many people never even think of. Region 4 is the heart of the park where the most popular trails are accessible by paved roads. June is still pretty snowy in the high alpine, although trails at lower elevations are typically snow-free. No visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is complete without spending the night in the backcountry. Weather is unpredictable and extreme conditions can happen in a blink of an eye. Temperatures start to drop in October, although you can still sneak in a warm-weather weekend, just be prepared for the cold once the sun goes down. Rocky Mountain highs are in great abundance throughout Colorado. Yeah, you read that right. This nationally scenic trail is not for the feint of heart. Even it’s lowest point at 3,315 feet on the Arikaree River holds the record for being the highest low-point of any state in America. This 28-mile hike is ideal for a weekend backpacking trip, passing through lowland meadows and climbing to panoramic views atop Flattop Mountain. The Lost Creek Wilderness, located near Denver, off of Highway 285, used to be one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets. Solo Backpacking on the Colorado Trail to Slide Lake//Sadie's First Backpacking Trip! Solo Backpacking. Peak mileage varies. The high and low points of this trek are only 2,000 feet different in elevation. You can learn more about our editorial and affiliate policy, The Official Guidebook of the Colorado Trail Foundation, Trekkin’ Breck: 10 Best Hikes Near Breckenridge, Colorado, The 12 Best Airbnb Rentals in Denver, Colorado, 11 Best Airbnb Rentals in Fort Collins, Colorado, 13 Best Adventure Vehicles for Hikers & Backpackers, Backpacking Without a Stove: How to Go Sin Fuego, 12 Best & Most Unique Airbnb Rentals in Montana, Rocky Mountain High: Colorado’s Best Waterfall Hikes, 13 Beautiful & Free Camping Spots in Colorado. You can find most of the best Colorado backpacking trips on federally owned lands, such as national forest and BLM lands. If you are new to backpacking, this primer will help you become familiar with what exactly an overnight trip entails and how enjoyable it can be. The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop is an excellent way to experience what this less-crowded section of the Rockies has to offer. Distance: 30 miles of Continental Divide Trail, 45 miles as a loop Elevation: around 11,600 feet of gain Average time to complete: 5 days. Here is a handful of some of the safest 14ers to solo hike. But, it can be extremely rewarding and the ideal way for you to explore the world on your own, without having to make compromises and take everyone else into account. In the July months, the high alpine of Colorado comes to life. Colorado backpacking trips in the Weminuche Wilderness, Lizard Head Wilderness, San Juan National Forest, and more. Route type. A third of the park lies above timberline, and 60 of its summits surpass 12,000 feet. SCARIEST moment I have had camping and was completely alone. Though only 27 miles long, the Four Pass Loop takes most people three to four days to complete. The Colorado Trail winds its way from Denver to Durango over 486 of mountainous terrain. Rating. VIEW FULL MAP. Scaling mountains in order to nab sweeping vistas from the summits of 14,000-foot peaks is a Colorado tradition, but that’s not all that Lost Creek has to offer. You’ll find info on 11 amazing backpacking trails in Colorado including: If you’re looking for a dramatic alpine lake with unbelievable mountains, take a weekend to backpack to Gore Lake. Overnight trips require a permit, so be sure to reserve yours in advance, since you are only allowed to camp in designated sites. Maybe that’s because in Colorado you can get closer to the sun in elevation than just about everywhere else in the United States. The 10 Most Memorable Hikes in North America. All of our favorite backpacking trips in Colorado listed below are located in designated wilderness areas. Backpacking without a stove is the easiest, leanest, and safest way to wander the wilderness. This iconic trail winds its way over four distinct passes all while delivering breath-taking views of the Elk Range. Hike from Cascade Creek to Mirror and Crater Lakes. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Distance: 23-mile loop Elevation: 5,843 feet of gain Average time to complete: 2 nights or one burly overnight. Region 1 is where the best lakes and meadows can be found. These trips will require backpacks, tents, sleeping bags and other gear and food that you will be carrying on your back needed to keep you fed, warm and dry. Solo backpacking can be freeing and fun. Extend your vacation with guided Jeep rides, river rafting along the mighty Animas River, and a vintage steam train ride to Cascade Canyon. The most I’ve ever done was fly from Chicago to Michigan by myself (and that’s not saying much). Our comprehensive guide to the best backpacking you can find in Colorado. Elevation: 4,393 feet to the basin from Needleton Average time to complete: A long weekend or 3 nights recommended. Local Tip: Due to the heavy use of this area, you are required to carry out your human waste, camp only in designated sites, and use bear protection for your food. Rocky Mountain National Park is the heart of the Colorado Rockies. I show my adventures and what I find along the way. Ten trails. Purchase a CO Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue Card, CORSAR, if you don’t have a hunting or fishing license. Reply Cathryn at . Thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail was his first backpacking foray, and he hasn’t stopped crushing miles since. From here, the ball is in your court if you decide to make base camp in Chicago Basin or set out on a long journey far into the wild beyond. It's my first trip to Colorado. Distance: 11.4 miles Elevation: 2,024 feet, mostly done in two steep sections Average time to complete: one night. Most segments can be completed in a day or a weekend. Not far from the town of telluride is the less strenuous Blue Lakes Trail. However, if you’re new to mountain environments, take these tips into consideration before backpacking in Colorado. Photo: IG clarityinperspective Easy Hikes. I’m 70, heading out on a 70-mile solo on the Colorado Trail next week to check my badass quotient. It's hard to find a backpacking spot that's better than this 488,000-acre jewel in the crown of Colorado's craggy San Juan Range. Before we dive in, I must address something very important. What are you waiting for? This stunner starts at Monarch Lake and follows Buchanan Creek into the Indian Peaks Wilderness on the Arapahoe Pass Spur Trail. To camp or go backpacking solo at Great Sand Dunes, you first have to secure a free backcountry permit. The average elevation is above 10,000 feet, and summer wildflower displays are magnificent enough to convince atheists of a higher power. Whether you're looking for an expert level backpacking trip, or a simple two-hour hike, there are very few areas in North America that will come close to what Colorado has to offer. This means you should be prepared to encounter quick and violent thunderstorms in the afternoon. Vango’s F10 Helium UL 1 is the ideal mid-range option in our list of 2019’s top 6 solo backpacking tents. Best backpacking trails in Colorado. Choose from plenty of trails to create your own personalized loop. Just don’t have a 4 season tent. The Most Extreme … Colorado born and bred, she loves backpacking, trail running, backcountry skiing, and packrafting, especially with her husband, one-year-old daughter, and lovable rescue mutt Tally. Join 80,000+ adventurers getting epic travel, camping and hiking ideas every week. Let's adventure together! Extreme elevation differences shape the various climates and wilderness zones throughout the 265,000 acres of Rocky Mountain National Park. Although you can hike in, a round-trip train ticket will run you about $70 and is certainly worth the extra few days of hiking. Arthur and his wife now regularly travel into the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest seeking new trails to hike. It’s a tough trail that includes an excessive amount of elevation gain coupled with fording high-flowing creeks. From the towns of Durango or Silverton, you can ride like a rockstar with a drink in your hand and your pack at your side while taking in the outstanding beauty of the great outdoors. Remember to be a respectful and responsible backpacker while on your Colorado road trip. be sure to check with the Forest Service for the most up-to-date information. I want to be a badass too. Tears are stinging my eyes. Though there are a number of trails to explore in the region, many ambitious backpackers opt to take on the difficult Four Pass Loop. This trail … July is considered a monsoon season in the mountains. Sky-high domes made of solid rock, broken boulders, and stretching granite arches are just a few of the spectacles to be seen here. So if you’re itching to get out in April, May or even early June, check out the Ben Tyler Trail. This 30-mile stretch of trail can be looped from the Bear Lake trailhead or you can hitch a ride back to your car on the opposite end of the park. Cliff Diving in Paradise. From here, you can set up a base camp and climb Elous, Windom, and Sunlight Peak. It’s called the … I'm going to be in Colorado for five days starting Memorial Day weekend. Average time to complete: Overnight. Fort Collins is right up there as one of the state's best getaways for a classic taste of Colorado life. Coming to Boulder for a solo adventure, or maybe looking for things to do while your travel companion is in meetings? Backpackers can disembark at Chicago Basin smack dab in the middle of the Weminuche National Wilderness. You … Buffalo Peaks Wilderness. The train can take you to where adventurous opportunities await around the towns of Silverton and Telluride. Mountain Lion encounter while solo backpacking in Colorado. After thru-hiking in 2016 and "weekend warrior" section hikes in 2017, I had 90 miles of the CT left (Segments 16-20). Menu. Happy hiking! I do a lot of solo backpacking. Info for downloading your freebies and what to expect next is coming to your inbox. Backpacking in Colorado is possible year-round depending on where you go and how much you’re willing to deal with the snow and cold. Below, we’ve given you the information to research and find your own backpacking paths through Colorado’s vast backcountry, but we’ve also provided a few example backpacking journeys we think you’ll love. Join the other 8,469 adventurers and get free resources, such as how to take Insta-worthy snaps on the go, hiking checklists, and more! A 136-mile trail network slices through the Lost Creek Wilderness, taking hikers through thick coniferous forests and past out-of-this-world granite formations. Read up on a guidebook like The Official Guidebook of the Colorado Trail Foundation before attempting to conquer any portion of this amazing trail. Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Backpackers have a wealth of routes to choose from in this popular park. The visitor center where you’ll get your permit for backpacking Great Sand Dunes National Park. Whether you're planning a visit to Denver to ski, hike, climb, eat, drink, or just relax, we've got you covered with some of the best Denver Airbnb rentals. Home – San Juan Tactical – About Us. Important: Solo Hiking 14ers In Colorado. Mattie Schuler. I quickly discovered that I liked it more than hiking with a partner or a group. Boulder’s super walkable, safe, welcoming and has an independent streak. Hop aboard the Durango Train (AKA the Backpacking Train) and take a ride through gorgeous landscapes on your way into the Chicago Basin of the Weminuche National Wilderness. When it comes to the best backpacking trips in Colorado, this is the ultimate local guide. This moderately-strenuous trail blooms with color in the summer months. There are optional in-and-out trails to different lakes if you want to make it a longer trek, but the standard circuit is a brutal enough experience over rugged terrain that most find it adequately satiates their high-altitude hunger. Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Solo Backpacking Colorado - Looking For Fall Turkeys - YouTube Named among the top 10 safest cities in America by Forbes, Colorado Springs and the region is the perfect place for a little solo adventure. By. These transitioned into longer loops through Golden Gate Canyon State Park and Lair O’ the Bear Out and Back. Our backpacking trips will involve hiking a mile or much more from a trailhead to locations in the Colorado wilderness. After that it’s a sustained, grueling march to the arches, but wow is it worth it. This is a "hike-in" only area with an unmarked trailhead, and I didn't see a single person until the next day when I got back to the car. There’s plenty of spots to camp and excellent water sources throughout the trail. In 2020, it recently became illegal to camp at the Rattlesnake Arches. Directions. Even a moderate hike in the Gores will feel like a total butt buster. best quality fake watches. Colorado Trail: Solo Backpacking in 2018. The 5 Easiest 14ers To Solo Hike In Colorado. Continental Divide Trail. The two ultimate backpacking adventures in Colorado are the Colorado Trail (approximately 470 miles) and Continental Divide Trail (approximately 800 miles). December 12, 2020. via /r/backpacking #hammock #hammocker #backpacking— Mary Murphy (@marymurphy3413) March 20, 2018 via Twitter March 20, … Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful backpacking trips in the US. VIEW FULL MAP. Keep in mind that no dogs are allowed on the trails in Rocky Mountain, you’ll need to book your permits in advance, and the entire loop takes around 5 days to complete. Beginners can opt to break the trail into two nights, or more avid backpackers can choose to make this a quick overnight jaunt. SOLO BACKPACKING Longs Peak, Colorado Alice Ford — September 14, 2020 It’s July, and I have been officially furloughed since March18th.� After the “Stay at Home” orders began in Los Angeles, my days consisted of enjoying being home, writing, making videos and, like the rest of the country, … waiting. Explore the most popular backpacking trails in Colorado with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. It’s only $3 for a year or $12 for 5 years. This is certainly a more strenuous backpacking loop, but it’s worth it. Hit the backcountry and explore to your heart’s content. There’s a trail for all ability levels, making Colorado an epic place to backpack. These transitioned into longer loops through Golden Gate Canyon State Park and Lair O’ the Bear Out and Back. ADVICE. Distance: 486 miles. Rugged alpine scenery and abundant wildlife make this International Biosphere Reserve justifiably popular. You’ll never know what you could find! Located near Aspen, the Maroon Bells Scenic Area resides in the heart of White River National Forest. Ample backcountry camping and numerous trails make this a backpacker’s paradise. Length: 15 miles. You can’t talk about the best backpacking in Colorado without mentioning the 4 Passes Loop. The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is very Boulder. Coloradans are also very conscious of the environment … Backpacking in Colorado is the dream of every outdoor enthusiast under the sun. Distance: 12.5 miles out and back Elevation: 2,890 feet, with a large majority of that gain in the last two miles. I had planned to finish the trail during summer 2018, but I took a job in Madison, Wisconsin and had to move by June 15. Will your name be the next to be immortalized on the wall of fame? In a state known for mountains, the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness stands out among Colorado’s mountainous locales. The transition to solo hiking was also one of trust—trusting that I was capable of exploring on my own safely and confidently. For solo travelers looking for a great US destination to explore, I highly recommend Denver, Colorado. Unfortunately, the cat is out of the bag, but with a wide variety of trails, it’s easy to find solitude here in the early season. Difficulty: Hard. Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. Could you recommend me a Solo Tent for hiking in Colorado this summer? Thank you! Nearby Woodland Park is stunning I'd do some there if you could. She'd rather be dirty than done up. Dozens of trailheads provide access points to the 28 segments of the trail. Difficulty. Distance: 11.8 miles round trip Elevation: 3,402 feet of gain Average time to complete: A perfect, pre-season overnight. Hop on the iconic Continental Divide Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park to hit all the highlights of Colorado’s most famed National Park. Instead, you can enjoy a more intimate experience meandering through the forests, exploring the wacky rock formations, and searching for the missing waters of disappearing creeks. Get maximum bang for each boot step on hikes that our most-traveled contributors call their all-time favorites. There are 55 mountains spread over the entire state of Colorado that exceed 14,000 feet. View Cart 800-642-5389 Menu . Backpacking to Rattlesnake Arches, just outside of the Colorado National Monument in Fruita is one of the best trails for backpacking in Colorado. There’s something magical about spending the night in the Rocky Mountains. When it comes to the best backpacking trips in Colorado, this is the ultimate... Backpacking Gore Lake The Best Alpine Lake in Colorado. The trail tops out on Hallet Peak, Flattop Mountain, and Ptarmigan Peak. The journey starts with a scenic train ride to the Needleton trailhead (how freakin’ cool is that?!??). We offer a variety of trips that fit a range of fitness and experience levels. You’ll have your fill before you can ever see it all. Those 6 solo hiking days thought me something very important: I won’t ever recommend hiking solo. No one I knew wanted to come along, but I still wanted to go, so I did it by myself. Thru-hikers looking to complete the entire Colorado Trail should plan for a four to six week journey between June and September. If you’re scoffing at a 28-mile trek, there’s an extended 54-mile variant for those looking for a more challenging adventure. The trail treats you to epic canyon views along with plenty of amazing rock formations and arches. If thru-hiking isn’t your thing, it’s certainly possible to section hike this incredible trail (I’ve done over 120 miles of section hiking with my dog). Hiking alone again in my life moment I have had camping and numerous trails make a! My life looking to complete the entire state of Colorado life off of Highway 285, used be... Anything but your own two feet backpackers have a 4 season Tent escape where... 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