Permits and counts instituted in Elks

[peter303]

Permits and counts instituted at Conundrim Springs, Four Pass Loop and Capitol Lake due to popularity.

http://www.denverpost.com/2017/11/01/co ... d-camping/

[WildWanderer]

This is something I'd hoped I'd never see in Colorado. Just look what it did to California! It got to the point where I'd have to secure a permit 3 months in advance just to go hiking. I hope that's not where we're headed...

[medic1369]

It's been needed. It's a s**t show out there.

[painless4u2]

Personally, I like peppermints, but haven't tried permints yet.

[soybean56]

While I agree that this is needed, it's still kind of sad. I'm glad people are enjoying the outdoors, but unfortunately this is the result.
Time to get another night at Capitol Lake before the permits set in.
Also, I wonder if they'll limit it to only weekends need to be permitted. I've never seen other overnighters at Capitol Lake my previous trips, which were all weekdays.

[Roca]

Everyone like to complain but look on this very site for trip reports conditions, etc.
Am I the only person who has made the connection between Internet information and the level to which a place gets trashed?

[LURE]

I didn't see this in the article... but I wonder, if like indian peaks, permits will only be required for the main summer months, e.g. June 1 to September 15.

I think this area was needing this. Particularly condundrum. Maybe it'll be harder for me to go to conundrum, but at least I know when I do go, it will be that much more enjoyable.

[Bombay2Boulder]

I am really happy that this was done. Permits for week days will be available easily. Having extensively backpacked in the Elks, this was the need.

[crestone14ers]

Forest Service was necessitated to act because Conundrum has turned into a waste disposal site with bacteria levels high during the warm, popular months filled with hoardes of visitors..

I used to enjoy going there... but unfortunately no more. And that's a real crying shame as its really beautiful there.

[justiner]

Will the Capitol Lake Permit essentially limit the # of people that will be going for a summit of Capitol Peak, as well? Interesting to see how that plays out.

[benlen]

Will the Capitol Lake Permit essentially limit the # of people that will be going for a summit of Capitol Peak, as well? Interesting to see how that plays out.

I'm hoping my team can summit Cap early next summer before this kicks in.

[Mike Shepherd]

I'm hoping my team can summit Cap early next summer before this kicks in.

I would shoot for December 22nd of this year, and really make it count.