suggestions for moderate dayhike

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rdp32
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suggestions for moderate dayhike

Post by rdp32 »

Hello all, last month I did some winter hiking in RMNP (Emerald Lake and its neighbors), and was pleased to discover that the trails were packed enough that snowshoes (which I do not own) were not needed (although my new microspikes helped a ton!). I particularly enjoyed having the chance to hike one of the super-popular areas during a winter weekday so that the crowds weren't quite so bad (and I didn't mind there being some other people, since I was hiking solo). Anyway, I have Friday (4/11) off this week, and would love to once again explore some of the too-crowded-during-the-summer-because-it's-so-accessible-and-spectacular areas. I've heard a lot about Brainard Lake and the Indian Peaks Wilderness; are there any particular trails there (or elsewhere) that are spectacular, safe from Avalanche danger, and do-able without snowshoes (I would be willing to rent a pair for the day, but would be particularly interested if microspikes were sufficient). I live in SW Denver.

Thanks in advance for any tips!
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scramble
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Re: suggestions for moderate dayhike

Post by scramble »

I think the hike to Lake Isabelle is particularly nice. Not sure if it's too short for ya and also not sure about snowshoes.
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djkest
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Re: suggestions for moderate dayhike

Post by djkest »

You might think about some Wild Basin hikes actually. Fairly accessible from Lyons (and the road is open now). The great thing about some of those trails is, the higher up you go, the more you see. But there is lots of nice stuff along the way too.
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peter303
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Re: suggestions for moderate dayhike

Post by peter303 »

Until June 15 there-abouts Branaird Lake is closed about two miles from the lake. You can park at the large winter gate parking lot (filled on weekends) and hike the road to the lake. The road snow is usually packed down enough to no not need snowshoes, unless just after a snowstorm. There trails in the trees paralleling the rod for snowshoers and skis.

Many people often dont go further than brainaird Lake due to a fierce wind many days.
But there isa paved road circling it adding another mile or so.

Then you can go even further along unpaved forest trails to further set of lakes. The first lake called Long Lake doesnt have too much climbing or avy danger. Further lakes in have more climbing and snow.
The forest trails are likely icy in morning and slushy in afternoon at this time of year.
rdp32
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Re: suggestions for moderate dayhike

Post by rdp32 »

Thanks for the suggestions. I looked at the map and a hike into Brainard/Long/Isabelle looks nice. The Wild Basin area also looks promising. I have two questions regarding either of these options:

1. Does anyone know if these trails are likely packed enough that snowshoes are not needed?
2. Are any of the trails in that area (Pawnee Pass Trail, Isabelle Glacier trail, Mitchell Lake Trail, Beaver Creek Trail, etc.) to be avoided due to avy danger?

Thanks!
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