Tune Up Hike prior to hitting some 14ers

Colorado peak questions, condition requests and other info.
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rdavisiii
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Tune Up Hike prior to hitting some 14ers

Post by rdavisiii »

Hello,
I am heading up on September 5th to Breckenridge to spend a week hiking in the area. I have a few ideas on some "easy" 14ers but was wondering about something smaller for the first day I am up there, kinda a tune up/acclimatization before I head out. Any suggestions around that area?

Thanks
Ron
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wildlobo71
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Re: Tune Up Hike prior to hitting some 14ers

Post by wildlobo71 »

rdavisiii wrote:Hello,
I am heading up on September 5th to Breckenridge to spend a week hiking in the area. I have a few ideas on some "easy" 14ers but was wondering about something smaller for the first day I am up there, kinda a tune up/acclimatization before I head out. Any suggestions around that area?

Thanks
Ron
I think a good tune up, and very easy hike with great views, is Shrine Mountain, off of Shrine Pass. (I can't speak directly for the Breck area, I'm sure there are dozens, and you'll get info on those from others.) Take I-70 to the top of Vail Pass, exit to go to the rest area at the top, follow the sign to Shrine Pass. At the top of Shrine Pass, there's a big trailhead for Shrine Mountain. It'll get you into the 12's for elevation.
Bill W.

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rockchalker
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Re: Tune Up Hike prior to hitting some 14ers

Post by rockchalker »

McCullough Gulch and Mohawk Lakes are two great hikes just south of Breck a few miles. Google Summit County hiking trails for a more complete list.
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Jim Davies
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Re: Tune Up Hike prior to hitting some 14ers

Post by Jim Davies »

Mohawk Lakes, about two miles south of Breckenridge, is a good warmup hike. The trail goes past a decent waterfall (for Colorado, anyway) and some interesting mine ruins. The first two lakes are right at timberline, but you can keep hiking up the valley above them for a ways past several more lakes, and if you're really feeling ambitious continue on to Crystal Peak or Pacific Peak.
trail description

Mt Sniktau is also a good choice, if you want a relatively easy summit hike.
Climbing at altitude is like hitting your head against a brick wall — it's great when you stop. -- Chris Darwin
I'm pretty tired. I think I'll go home now. -- Forrest Gump
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