I'm in WA state and potentially planning a 1 or 2-nighter with a group of mixed physical ability in May. Probably 7-8 miles a day max. My goal would be camping in a spot that's snow free and somewhat scenic / alpine within 4 hours drive of Denver.
My intuition is that everything above like 9k will be snow - covered still. Am I way off? Suggestions?
Moderate Suggestions for May
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jared_j
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drewski
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Re: Moderate Suggestions for May
When in May you go will make a big difference. Also, how the weather goes from now until then will make a BIG difference. The first place that I thought of was the Rainbow Trail on the east side of the Sangres, with side trips up south facing slopes or ridges to alpine areas.
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jasperson
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Re: Moderate Suggestions for May
First thing that came to mind that best fits your criteria is Golden Gate Canyon State Park. Low elevation, one hour from Denver, easy-moderate loops available. Some interesting old homesteads with signage and the like, but also pretty tame and no drop dead views.
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TravelingMatt
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Re: Moderate Suggestions for May
May 1 is still winter most years (where I live).
May 31 is summer in low snow years, such as 2012.
May 31 is summer in low snow years, such as 2012.
You never know what is enough until you know what is more than enough. -- William Blake
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ARY
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Re: Moderate Suggestions for May
I've got response for somewhat related topic, has some details on conditions: http://www.14ers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=48796" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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Turtle Boy
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Re: Moderate Suggestions for May
Yeah, May is a tough month for your criteria.
The previous suggestion for Golden Gate Canyon SP is a good one.
However, you may want to also consider the Great Sand Dunes NP. I have gone in May with great luck and it's right at 4 hours of driving. If there is a lot of snow up high you enjoy the Dunes and hit backpacking sites on the Sand Ramp trail and if snow is light you can explore Mosca Pass or other Alpine Trails.
Even standard early season "go to's" like Lost Creek will have significant snow especially on north facing slopes.
The previous suggestion for Golden Gate Canyon SP is a good one.
However, you may want to also consider the Great Sand Dunes NP. I have gone in May with great luck and it's right at 4 hours of driving. If there is a lot of snow up high you enjoy the Dunes and hit backpacking sites on the Sand Ramp trail and if snow is light you can explore Mosca Pass or other Alpine Trails.
Even standard early season "go to's" like Lost Creek will have significant snow especially on north facing slopes.
