Livestream June 24 - Open to All Members - How to Plan with TRIPS

Topic

Summer ’08 Colorado Trail-Start Date?

Become a member to post in the forums.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY Login
  • This topic is empty.
Viewing 6 posts - 1 through 6 (of 6 total)
J Bailey
PostedMar 16, 2008 at 6:13 pm

Hello All…

I'm sitting at home in Denver and listening to forecasts for more snow in the high country. Some areas have had a record-breaking year while others are merely at 200% (or more) above average.

I guess I'm not leaving in mid-june for my southbound Colorado Trail hike anymore.

My question to the world at large: When would you anticipate the earliest, no ice axe, start date? Please give me your best guesses because I have absolutely no clue.

I would also love to know about any resources for snow depth and expected rate of melt. Are there some general rules for figuring this sort of thing?

Thanks All!

Greg Mihalik
PostedMar 16, 2008 at 6:44 pm

Monarch Crest, west of Salida, is usually snowbound until the first of July. This year I would Guess mid-July. It's negotiable before then, but muddy and easily damaged, when snowbanks force off-trail excursions.

Work backwards from there.

Richard Matthews
PostedMar 17, 2008 at 6:42 am

It depends. When there are airline tickets, etc. to consider then I think you plan on starting the 4th of July.

Just past the tunnel west bound look at the Ten Mile Range. If the Range is nearly crossable then it is OK to start.

The snow pack on Georgia Pass and Ten Mile Range determine the earliest start date.

Jack H.
PostedMar 21, 2008 at 10:27 pm

Can I have the map CD?! I'm planning on leaving mid august. Haven't been following the snow closely, but I hiked the PCT in a huge snow year and LOVED hiking across miles and miles of spring snow. I wouldn't rule out an early start (mid june), it'd be a lot of fun probably.

J Bailey
PostedMar 22, 2008 at 7:03 am

I really appreciate everyone's input, and the snow depth link.

Another poster PM'd me for the maps a few days ago…sorry, been busy and forgot to edit the post.

Viewing 6 posts - 1 through 6 (of 6 total)

Become a member to post in the forums.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY Login
advertisementYour privacy is protected: We do not transmit your user data to third-party ad platforms or advertisers, and we do not host third-party tracking pixels. Backpacking Light serves ads on its own custom, native, and internal platform.
Wool Thermo Zip PoloWool Thermo Zip PoloMerino wool-blend mesh base layer with a 3/4 zip neck for venting and reinforced shoulders for pack-carrying comfort. Weighs 6.3oz | 180gShop Wool Thermo Zip Polo
Our Purpose

Backpacking Light helps hikers and other backcountry enthusiasts overcome their barriers to living a life outside in Wild Places.

Inform. Educate. Inspire. Learn more

Email Newsletter

Get Backpacking Light news, updates, gear info, skills, and commentary delivered into your inbox 1-2x/week.

More Links

+1-406-640-HIKE (4453)

© Beartooth Media Group Inc.

Premium Articles

You're currently viewing a free preview of a member exclusive premium article. Our premium articles include in depth journalism and insights from the Backpacking Light editorial team.

Get full article access by subscribing to a Premium or Unlimited Backpacking Light membership!
Membership Login
Loading...