West RMNP & Indian Peak wilderness trails

[temptnmonkey]

I don't know if you've already seen this, but here is the map of RMNP which includes many of the trails.

http://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm and click "view map" under the big green box on top that says "Rocky Mountain."

The trail going west from the top of Flattop does appear to connect to many other major trails on the west side of the park. Not sure how it is though, I haven't actually walked it. I know you can also continue south from Flattop and see many more peaks too.

[Alex]

Many thanks to all people who answered.

Yes, I am aware that many parks have campsite groups limitations. Anyway, we are not going to backpack as an entire group. Most probably, 5-6 people will go while others will spend those days just on day hikes.

Thanks for the map, I have not seen it. I will look for the book also.

[Scanner]

FYI, the PDF version of that map is http://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/u ... edmapa.pdf, if you would prefer to download it to your PC.

[sivadselim]

Thanks for the map, I have not seen it.

Really? By all means download the PDF version that Scanner linked, above.

I will look for the book also.

Indispensible for RMNP adventuring.

[Alex]

One more question. What about Ptarmigan mountain and/or Andrews peak? Are they doable within the limits that I've mentioned?
And if yes, is there gpx trail data available for them? If not, could anybody advise at least which entrance to use, North inlet or East inlet?

[irish95]

I climbed Andrews Peak about 15 years ago, from Lake Verna along the East Inlet Trail. I just used a map/compass. The terrain is moderately steep but nothing that exceeds difficult class 2. I aimed for the saddle between Andrews and point 12241 and then took the ridge to the summit. There are some minor cliff bands in the trees that are more difficult to see on the way down, however they are easy to work around. The view from Andrews is spectacular.

[Alex]

I would have to agree with everything that irish95 said, and would add the hike to Lake of the Clouds from the Colorado River trailhead. 14 miles and about 2500 feet of elevation gain.

I am wondering if Howard Mountain easy to reach from the lake and if yes, how difficult the trail is and how many extra miles would it be.