Blanca Peak: August 31, 2019

My last hike for the 2019 season was supposed to go out with a bang with summits to Blanca and Ellingwood Peak. I knew the hike up the Lake Como Road was going to be tough, but that is a huge understatement coming from sea level. I flew into Denver from Austin on Thursday and our group of five headed to the Lake Como Road on Friday after spending the night in Col Springs. We rented a newer model Tahoe for all 5 us to fit with our gear. Good choice!

We arrived to the Lake Como Road around 11:00 am on Friday. The plan was to hike the road to the lake and then spend the next few nights camped at the lake for Blanca and Ellingwood Pt. The road is tough! Our little Tahoe made it appox 1 mile on the road before we parked off to the side to finish the road with a hike. I recommend to really plan what you need for both camping, hiking, and sleeping for a few days. I did not. My pack was too small and I ended up carrying a bag in the front side of me for over 6 miles to the lake. After arriving to the late at sundown, we quickly pitched our tents and hit the sleeping bags. If you like your vehicle, really pay attention to what you are doing. We saw a John Deere Gator lose an axle and a Dodge Ram jacked up 4 X 4 also break down on the trail. There was also bear evidence everywhere.

The next morning I intended to hike both Blanca and Ellingwood. This would not be the case. The route description is on point and the trail is easy to follow. However, my shoulder was really bothering me due to my surgery six months prior. The lakes contain fish and this further added to my distraction of not making the summit. After a couple of hours I had to turn around due to severe pain. Word of advice….If you have any type of injury, save the Lake Como Trail and these mountains for when you are really in shape. I will return when I am healthy!