Hey everyone!
I'm a CO native but I go to school out of state. It's been way too long since I've been home and able to see my beautiful mountains, and I'm finally getting to come back over Thanksgiving. Anyways.... looking for any hikes that would still be doable this point of the year for someone at my ability level. I've done some more beginners peaks like Bierstadt and Democrat but that was in summer weather conditions. No experience with spikes or anything equipment like that but I would definitely be interested in learning some new gear if necessary. Let me know.... Thanks!
Beginner Thanksgiving Hikes
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mckynzee
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randalmartin
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Re: Beginner Thanksgiving Hikes
What area of the state will you be staying over Thanksgiving?
If you will be along the front range and since it sounds like it would be your first winter hiking experience I would suggest something in RMNP. Maybe rent some snowshoes at REI. Not sure if you feel the need to summit something or just get out in the snow a bit.
If you will be along the front range and since it sounds like it would be your first winter hiking experience I would suggest something in RMNP. Maybe rent some snowshoes at REI. Not sure if you feel the need to summit something or just get out in the snow a bit.
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alpha
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Re: Beginner Thanksgiving Hikes
If you're going to RMNP, rent the snowshoes from Estes Park Mountain Shop. Super cheap and you can take your pick of style, including MSR Lightning Ascents with heel lift bar, all for the same price.
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nomad
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Re: Beginner Thanksgiving Hikes
Hi Welcome back to Colorado. 
if you are in Northern Colorado, RMNP is a great option! The weather changes very quickly in the Park this time of year so plan accordingly. I am up there every Monday and Tuesday if you want some company.
if you are in Northern Colorado, RMNP is a great option! The weather changes very quickly in the Park this time of year so plan accordingly. I am up there every Monday and Tuesday if you want some company." The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war"
Recon 1st inf. Div.
Recon 1st inf. Div.
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Broken Knee
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Re: Beginner Thanksgiving Hikes
Every time I've done Twin Sisters on Thanksgiving, it's been a gale force white out. So I recommend Twin Sisters.
When life gets you down, climb!
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peter303
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Re: Beginner Thanksgiving Hikes
I recommend the south side of Loveland Pass. It is above treeline so you have fantasic views from the start. You climb as much as thousand feet depending on how far you go.
The slope is usually windswept of most snow, so you may not need any special gear. Hiking poles or microspikes can be helpful sometimes. But you have to prepare for a strong wind that could give you face and fingers frostbite.
The pass road closes during storms and is ice-packed for 24 hours after a storm. It goes by three ski resorts. So you can buy a hot chocolate or meal at Loveland Resort or Keystone and watch the skiers. Free parking.
I-70 has massive jams at times during Thanksgiving weekend.
The slope is usually windswept of most snow, so you may not need any special gear. Hiking poles or microspikes can be helpful sometimes. But you have to prepare for a strong wind that could give you face and fingers frostbite.
The pass road closes during storms and is ice-packed for 24 hours after a storm. It goes by three ski resorts. So you can buy a hot chocolate or meal at Loveland Resort or Keystone and watch the skiers. Free parking.
I-70 has massive jams at times during Thanksgiving weekend.
