With the snow in the high alpine still sticking around but temperatures rising, I thought now would be a great time to reveal some of my favorite backpacking trips I’ve done over the past couple summers to get us all excited for what is to come.

Starting off with my first ever trip, Wheeler Geologic Area should not be left out on anyone’s list, though it does seem to be forgotten, likely because of it’s location. I must say, this still remains one of the wildest places I’ve seen in this state. Located outside of Creede, the formations formed from volcanic eruptions 25 million years ago are sure to leave you in awe. The hike is not for the faint of heart, stretching 17 miles with 3,000 ft. gain through a highly exposed trail. It is smart to start this hike early with this said because once you get to the campsites, there is plenty of coverage to set up camp and take a nice, long, and well deserved nap.

Trail to Mt Humboldt and Crestone Needle

Next we have the hike to South Colony Lakes below Crestone Needle and Mount Humboldt which has some breathtaking views. The hike to the lakes is about 9 miles round trip with 2,300 ft gain and if you decide to tack on the peak of Humboldt it will add about another 1.5 miles (and an extra 2000+ ft. gain). This was a tough hike with a full backpack, but well worth it once we got to camp and were able to hike around to the lakes, do some fishing, and then bag Humboldt the following morning before packing up to return. This is definitely a popular trail in the peak of the summer, but there is plenty of space up there to spread out and find your perfect spot. Highly recommend getting up early for sunrise to catch the alpen glow on the needles.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a bit hesitant to include this one, as it has become near and dear to me over the years, typically having it all to myself. It is nice to run into some other people from time to time though. This hike off Independence pass to Independence and Lost Man Lakes is rather short but with a decent incline up to camp. The views never fail, the fishing is great, and the ridge separating the two lakes brings a smile to my face every time. Coming from Independence Lake the peak to the right of the ridge provides an incredible sunrise experience if you can get yourself up early enough to make it up in time.

Last summer, Lone Eagle was all that consumed my thoughts. This peak had lured me in with all the photos I’d seen and I had to see it with my own eyes. The trip was full of memories I will soon not forget, from the hitting the trailhead an hour before sunrise, to several close encounters with moose, a night of intense downpour, and finally an epic sunrise to cap it all off. Taking the trail from Monarch Lake, the hike spans 16 miles and 2,300 ft. gain. Whether its a long day hike or overnight backpack, this hike is something everyone in Colorado needs to experience once. If you are going to backpack it though, be sure to keep your eyes out for permits, as the best spots go early.

After Lone Eagle, Gilpin Lake was another hike I really wanted to do going into the summer. It was my first time experiencing Steamboat outside of the winter months and it did not disappoint by any measure. It is about a 10 mile hike out and back with about 2,000 ft. gain. The scenery of Mt Zirkle Wilderness was stunning with wildflowers growing in abundance in early August. It does have a decent amount of exposure, so make sure to pack the sunhats, sunscreen, and hit the trail early. Once at the lake, I got my fair share of fishing in and had quite the views for sunset and sunrise. The hike around the lake to the shot seen above should not be missed for a sunrise or sunset. Once back from camp, a beer and pizza from Mountain Tap Brewery in Steamboat is the reward everyone deserves after this hike.

Hope everyone is able to get a few trips in this summer. Stay safe out there and let me know what I need to add to my list!