Question:
I want to take my 10-year old on his first real backpacking trip around June 1. I’m in the Boulder front range area. Can anyone suggest a good place? Not too strenuous, not too high (i.e. not much snow), less than 5 miles in, and also, is there anything available out there that you don’t need a permit for? I was appalled at the fees and booked up reservations in RMNP and Indian Peaks, even this early. Thanks
Response:
Jeff, I know what you mean about the RMNP and Indian Peaks bookings. Here’s a few options that should fit right in: Lost Creek Wilderness, Goose Creek Trail. Starts about 15-20 miles from Deckers (SW of Denver) and meanders up and down gently for as long as you want to take it. Fantastic granite formations, like nothing else in Colorado. Mount Evans Wilderness, Chicago Lakes. Trail starts at Echo Lake and goes to a series of chain lakes at timberline. Probably some snow up higher, but shouldn’t stop you. Various segments of the Colorado Trail. Except for the first section, which starts out following paved bike trails and such near Chatfield Reservoir, the trail might be nice for camping in the trees, which might go a little easier and provide more comfort for a first-timer in case inclement weather moves in. Could be a bit warm and waterless, though. These options are all fairly close to your area. For every additional hour from home you’re willing to travel, the choices grow considerably. Have fun! — Todd Caudle www.toddcaudle.com (misc. landscape photos) www.skylinepress.com (Colorado books & calendars)
Response:
If you are willing to drive a bit, one of the most magnificent valleys is the Big Blue in the Uncompahgre Wilderness. The access road is off highway149 between Gunnison & Lake City. Drive the forest service road to the end where there is a campground and then the trailhead. The trail’s terrain is gentle ups & downs for 5 beautiful miles to Slide Lake where there is good fishing & good sites for camping. If you want more, go another 5 miles or so south, set up camp again, and the next day dayhike the trail up to Uncompahgre Peak, 14,309 ft. I have photos and more trail info on my website listed below. Happy trails! Chuck’s Backpacking Bonanza http://members.aol.com/CMorHiker/backpack/
Response:
A little more driving but alot less people: Try the Snowy’s out of Laramie – there are some really beautiful lakes – not sure about snowline though. I’d also suggest the Never Summer’s…. Have a great time!!! s Before you buy.
Response:
Lory State Park, west of Ft. Collins has 5 (I think) walk-in tent sites that seem to meet your criteria. Don’t be fooled by the close proximity to FC–this part of the park has a very remote feel. The St. Park fee is $4/day, and there may be additional fees for the backcountry sites, but I’m not sure about this. Check the following for more details: http://coloradoparks.org/lory/index.asp I want to take my 10-year old on his first real backpacking trip around June 1. I’m in the Boulder front range area. Can anyone suggest a good place? Not too strenuous, not too high (i.e. not much snow), less than 5 miles in, and also, is there anything available out there that you don’t need a permit for? I was appalled at the fees and booked up reservations in RMNP and Indian Peaks, even this early. Thanks
– — Charlotte DeMott Dept. of Atmospheric Science Colorado State University Fort Collins CO 80526 phone: (970) 491-1487
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