Four nights in the mountains

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nickdave311
Posts: 1
Joined: 7/22/2015
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Four nights in the mountains

Post by nickdave311 »

Hello All.
A friend and I are heading out that way in the upcoming weeks and are trying to figure out where to camp for a few nights. I am torn between Guanella pass area (might do Bierstadt), Crested Butte area, Twin lakes, or Alma area.
Our major requirement is we would like dispersed camping. The other requirement is hiking accessible from our camp or within half hour to hour drive...

Near Alma is there any hiking other than Lincoln, Cam, Demo, and Quandry (close by)?
Kite lake looks awesome but I'm betting we can't be one of the first come first serve people and I think we are looking for a bit more seclusion than that for our camp site.

As for hiking I wouldn't mind hitting a class 1 or 2 14er but i'd likely have to do it solo as I don't think my friend is up for the early morning start. And really the trip is about spending time with my friend so a 14er probably wont happen. Other than that I enjoy panoramic views and alpine lakes.

Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!!! If you make a recommendation and it would require us to get a back country permit could you please mention so?

Thanks in advance I really appreciate the help.
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Scott P
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Re: Four nights in the mountains

Post by Scott P »

Near Alma is there any hiking other than Lincoln, Cam, Demo, and Quandry (close by)?
Yes, there are good hikes in every direction from that location.
Kite lake looks awesome but I'm betting we can't be one of the first come first serve people and I think we are looking for a bit more seclusion than that for our camp site.
Kite Lake usually doesn't fill up (at least it hasn't when I have been there even on a holiday weekend), but it can be very windy so a good tent is needed. We took a car camping tent (I should have known better) and it literally blew apart.

I like your Crested Butte idea. Lots of good stuff is around there. I'd also recommend the Mount Zirkel Wilderness or Flat Tops. There are plenty of places in the San Juans as well.
I'm old, slow and fat. Unfortunately, those are my good qualities.
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mickknu16
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Re: Four nights in the mountains

Post by mickknu16 »

Just West of Clear Creek Res near Granite, which is kind of close to twin lakes.. You have several options for 14ers: Oxford, Belford, Missouri, Huron, w/ hikes & views, and all with decent dispersed camping at or near the THs scattered along the road for a while. Head up to CB & the peaks are gorgeous and rewarding, but more difficult of hikes generally to get to your destinations.
"Your mind is the mountain before you, you've reached the summit now transcend the skies."
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