Epic Colorado Fishing Spots: Local Secrets Revealed – 6

Colorado Fishing Locations
Top Fishing Gadgets – Colorado Fishing Locations

Some Interesting Fishing Locations in Colorado (USA)

Colorado Fishing Spots – Looking to fish in Colorado? Discover prime locations from pristine mountain streams to serene lakes. Here are some excellent spots for sportfishing.

McClure Pass (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

A High-Altitude Journey Through Majestic Landscapes

McClure Pass, a prominent landmark in western Colorado, rises to a height of 8,770 feet, traversing the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway. Located between the towns of Redstone and Somerset, near Carbondale and Paonia respectively, McClure Pass offers stunning panoramas of some of Colorado’s most breathtaking wilderness areas. The pass is a popular destination for those seeking scenic drives, camping, and outdoor adventures along State Highway 133.

Transformed Path: A Journey Across Time

The history of McClure Pass dates back to the Ute Indians, who used the pass while inhabiting the Crystal and Muddy Valleys. Spanish settlers explored the area in 1776, followed by miners, farmers, and ranchers. Over time, the trail along McClure Pass transformed from a hunting route to a wagon road in the late 1800s. In 1947, the route was modernized and named after “Mac” McClure, who established a hotel near the railroad.

Accessibility and Vehicle Considerations (Colorado Fishing Spots)

McClure Pass, though lower than some of Colorado’s high-elevation mountain passes, features steep grades on both sides, reaching an 8% incline. The pass includes one significant switchback on the north end. Near the summit, a park area and overlook are located on the south side of the road. However, caution is advised as the area is popular for stopping and parking.

Seasonal Access and Vehicle Restrictions

State Highway 133, the paved road leading to McClure Pass, is generally open year-round. However, severe winter snowstorms may necessitate closures until the road can be safely cleared. All passenger vehicles are allowed on State Highway 133, but winter travelers should be aware of Colorado’s traction and chain laws.

Exploring McClure Pass: Outdoor Activities and Attractions

At the summit of McClure Pass, a 4.5-mile dirt road, known as Ragged Mountain Road or Forest Service Road #898, awaits those seeking hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding adventures. The trail is dog-friendly and offers moderate difficulty. Hikers can access the more isolated Raggeds Trail, a 14-mile path through the Raggeds Wilderness, 2.75 miles into the main trail.

Camping and Recreation in the Gunnison National Forest (Colorado Fishing Spots)

The Gunnison National Forest, encompassing McClure Pass, features the McClure Campground at the summit. The campground offers free, first-come, first-served campsites with fire pits/grills, picnic tables, and shared vault toilets. The surrounding area boasts dramatic peaks, beautiful meadows, and ample opportunities for trout fishing and wildlife viewing. Visitors might encounter beavers, bears, mountain goats, and other fascinating creatures.

The West Elk Loop Scenic Byway

The West Elk Loop Scenic Byway begins in Carbondale, traveling south on Highway 133 to Paonia, connecting with Kebler Pass, which leads to Crested Butte. The loop continues south on Highway 135 to Gunnison, west on Highway 50 past Blue Mesa Reservoir, and then north on Highway 92 to Hotchkiss. The scenic byway passes through Crawford and the North Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

Mesa Lakes (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

Grand Mesa Lakes: A Colorado Mountain Paradise

The Grand Mesa, a majestic flat-top mountain, boasts a network of lakes and reservoirs, collectively known as “The Mesa Lakes,” that offer a captivating escape into the heart of Colorado’s wilderness. These lakes, nestled at an elevation of around 10,000 feet, are surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Mesa National Forest.

Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

The Grand Mesa Lakes, accessible via the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway, enchant visitors with their serene beauty and diverse recreational opportunities. These lakes, a haven for anglers, boaters, campers, and hikers, offer a chance to immerse oneself in the tranquility of the mountains.

A Journey Through Diverse Landscapes (Colorado Fishing Spots)

The Grand Mesa Lakes, scattered across the vast expanse of the Grand Mesa National Forest, provide a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the area’s network of trails, cast a line in pristine waters, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.

A Variety of Activities

The Mesa Lakes, a haven for outdoor recreation, offer a range of activities, catering to diverse interests. The area’s many lakes, surrounded by a diverse ecosystem, attract a wide array of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose, and various bird species.

Boating Adventures

The Grand Mesa Lakes, a haven for boaters, offer a variety of options for exploring the area’s serene waters. The lakes, with their numerous boat launches, provide access to a variety of watercraft, from small canoes to larger motorboats.

Camping Under the Stars (Colorado Fishing Spots)

The Grand Mesa Lakes, with their numerous campgrounds, offer a tranquil escape for those seeking a night under the stars. Campers can choose from a variety of options, ranging from developed campgrounds to remote, dispersed campsites.

Fishing in Pristine Waters

The Grand Mesa Lakes, a haven for anglers, offer a diverse array of fishing opportunities. The lakes, stocked with a variety of trout species, provide a challenging and rewarding experience for those seeking a memorable catch.

Hiking Through Majestic Landscapes

The Grand Mesa Lakes, surrounded by an extensive trail system, invites hikers to explore the area’s breathtaking landscapes. The trails, winding through the diverse terrain, offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and forests.

A Mountain Escape

The Grand Mesa Lakes, a testament to the beauty and ruggedness of Colorado’s mountains, continue to enchant visitors seeking a tranquil escape or a challenging adventure. The lakes, with their serene waters, diverse landscapes, and plentiful activities, provide a memorable and unforgettable experience for those who choose to explore them.

Michigan River (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

The Michigan River: A North-Central Colorado Gem

The Michigan River, stretching approximately 69 miles through north-central Colorado, is a tributary of the North Platte River. This river flows through a diverse landscape, offering a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.

A Scenic Course

The Michigan River originates from the Michigan Lakes near Lulu Mountain in the north-central part of the state. It flows northward through Gould, passing by the State Forest State Park and the town of Walden, before meeting the North Platte River near the Wyoming border.

A Fisherman’s Paradise (Colorado Fishing Spots)

The Michigan River, particularly in its main section near Walden, offers excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of brown trout at the Diamond J and SWA access points.

Easy Access

Many small and medium-sized fish can be easily caught from the banks in this area. However, during the warmer months, be prepared for a large population of bugs and mosquitoes.

Fly Fishing Opportunities

Fly fishing can also be enjoyed on the Michigan River, but a significant portion of the river features brush-filled banks, requiring wading. The lower parts of the river, closer to the Michigan Lakes, are ideal for fly fishing.

Monarch Lake (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

A Colorado Gem

Monarch Lake, a sparkling gem nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, beckons visitors to embrace its serene beauty and diverse recreational opportunities. Located just east of Granby in Grand County, this lake, at an elevation of 8,400 feet, is one of Colorado’s five “Great Lakes,” found within the Arapaho National Recreation Area.

A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Monarch Lake, surrounded by rushing creeks, stunning mountain views, seasonal wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, offers a tranquil escape into the wilderness. The lake, accessible via the Monarch Lake Trailhead, located just upstream from Lake Granby, welcomes visitors seeking a connection with nature.

Discover The Rich History of Logging and Recreation (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Monarch Lake, constructed at the turn of the 20th century, holds a fascinating history intertwined with the development of the local logging industry. The lake, created by damming Roaring Fork Creek, played a vital role in the operations of the Rocky Mountain Lumber Company, providing a means to transport logs and a source of drinking water for the town of Monarch.

Exploring the Lake’s Surroundings

Monarch Lake, nestled along the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, provides a gateway to the adjacent Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, inviting visitors to embark on challenging and rewarding hikes. The lake, easily accessible via a large parking area at the end of Monarch Lake Road, offers a range of amenities, including restrooms, maps, and seasonal rangers.

A Variety of Activities

Monarch Lake, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The lake, surrounded by dense vegetation and abundant water sources, attracts a diverse range of wildlife, including moose, deer, black bears, geese, and waterbirds, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Boating and Fishing Adventures (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Monarch Lake, welcoming non-motorized boats, offers a tranquil setting for kayaking, float tubing, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing. The lake, with its wide, shallow waters, provides a serene escape for those seeking a leisurely paddle.

Camping and Hiking Through the Wilderness

Monarch Lake, while lacking developed campgrounds, offers a variety of camping options in the surrounding Arapaho National Recreation Area. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, accessible from Monarch Lake, provides backcountry camping opportunities, requiring permits for overnight stays between June 1st and September 15th.

A Trail Network for All

Monarch Lake offers a network of trails that wind through its stunning landscapes, inviting hikers to explore the area’s beauty. The Monarch Lake Trail, a four-mile loop circling the lake, connects with the Cascade Creek Trail, offering a scenic route back to the parking area.

Horseback Riding Through the Mountains

Horseback riding enthusiasts can explore the area’s trails, experiencing the majesty of the Rocky Mountains. The Monarch Lake Trail, open to horseback riding from June 1st to November 15th, provides a scenic journey through the wilderness.

Monument Lake Resort (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

A Serene Mountain Oasis in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains

Nestled amidst the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains west of Trinidad and Weston, Colorado, Monument Lake offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking a picturesque mountain retreat. The lake itself sits on a 368-acre private property, known as Monument Lake Resort, providing easy access to its scenic shores. While often confused with Monument Lake in Monument, located roughly 150 miles north in El Paso County, this lake holds its own unique charm and history.

History of Recreation and Conservation

The lake’s name, “Monument,” originated from a 15-foot rock formation that once emerged from its center, resembling two Indian Chiefs. Though the formation has since disappeared, the name endures. In 1937, the Monument Lake Resort and dam were constructed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), transforming the area into a popular recreational destination.

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The area once housed a zoo and fish hatchery, and today, the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife continues to stock the lake with fish. A new bathhouse with showers and restrooms, funded by the City of Trinidad, was added in 2019, enhancing visitor comfort.

A Variety of Amenities for a Relaxing Stay (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Monument Lake Resort, a city-owned property managed by Monument Lake Resort LLC, offers a wide range of amenities for guests. Visitors have access to restrooms, showers, a lodge, cabins, a convenience store, a marina, a restaurant, and a campground with tent and full-service RV spots. An overnight stay includes a daily resort pass, while day visitors can access the lake for a small fee.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Monument Lake

Monument Lake Resort provides a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors may encounter a variety of bird species, including turkeys, hawks, and foxes. The area also boasts wildlife sightings, including elk and mule deer. The resort’s marina offers both fishing and paddle boat rentals, inviting visitors to explore the lake’s serene waters. All visitors are required to wear a life jacket while boating, and dogs are prohibited on rental boats.

Camping, Fishing, and Hiking

In addition to the lodge and cabins, guests can choose from various camping options, including tent sites and partial and full-service RV campsites. Reservations can be made in advance by contacting the Monument Lake Resort. Anglers can cast their lines in Monument Lake’s waters, stocked with a variety of trout and salmon by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. A valid state fishing license is required.

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The resort’s convenience store sells bait, and a fish cleaning station is available free of charge to resort guests. A leisurely hiking/walking trail follows the shores of Monument Lake, allowing visitors to soak in the breathtaking alpine views. Additional trails offer opportunities to explore the resort’s 368-acre property.

Exploring Beyond the Resort

Monument Lake Resort offers a gateway to exploring the surrounding San Isabel National Forest, with its abundance of outdoor activities.

Mount Bierstadt (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

A Colorado Icon

Mount Bierstadt, a majestic 14er towering at 14,065 feet, stands as a symbol of Colorado’s rugged beauty and challenging terrain. This popular hiking destination, known for its relatively easy Class 2 difficulty, attracts both seasoned climbers and those seeking their first taste of high-altitude adventure.

A Journey to the Summit

Mount Bierstadt, located about an hour and a half west of Denver, beckons adventurers to conquer its summit, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The closest town to the mountain is Georgetown, located approximately 12 miles away.

Exploring the Trail’s Diverse Terrain (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Mount Bierstadt features three distinct trail routes, each offering a unique experience for hikers. The West Slopes Trail, a Class 2 trail, provides a relatively easy ascent to the summit, while the shared Bierstadt, Sawtooth, and Evans combo route, along with the East Ridge route, both classified as Class 3, present a more challenging trek.

A Hiking Paradise

The Mount Bierstadt Trail, a 15-mile out-and-back roundtrip, is considered a challenging hike, taking an average of 6 hours to complete. The popularity of the trail, especially during spring and summer, can lead to heavy traffic.

Camping and Recreation

Mount Bierstadt, a popular destination for both hikers and campers, offers a variety of options for those seeking a peaceful escape. Visitors can secure self-issued permits at each trailhead, required for those venturing into the Mount Evans Wilderness.

Fishing in the Mountain’s Shadow (Colorado Fishing Spots)

The area surrounding Mount Bierstadt provides a haven for anglers, offering opportunities to cast a line in both lakes and streams. Ice fishing is also popular during the colder months. Those seeking a more convenient fishing spot can try their luck at Georgetown Lake, located in the town of Georgetown.

Exploring the Mountain’s Trails

The Mount Bierstadt area boasts a network of well-maintained trails, offering diverse experiences for hikers and trail runners. The trails, clearly marked for easy navigation, provide a chance to explore the stunning landscapes and breathtaking views.

A Winter Wonderland

Mount Bierstadt transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of winter activities for those seeking a snowy escape. Backcountry skiing and snowshoeing become popular options, allowing visitors to explore the challenging terrain. The area’s stunning views and rugged landscape provide a unique and unforgettable experience.

Mount Bross (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

A Majestic Peak in the Mosquito Range

Nestled within the scenic Mosquito Range of Pike National Forest, Mount Bross stands tall at 14,172 feet, a Class 2 peak known for its captivating beauty. This majestic mountain shares its lofty neighborhood with Mount Lincoln, Mount Cameron, and Mount Democrat, creating a breathtaking panorama for adventurous souls.

A Legacy of Silver and Scenery: Mount Bross’s History and Attractions

Named after William Bross, a prominent landowner in the area, Mount Bross is renowned for its connection to the Decalibron Loop hike and the numerous silver mineshafts that dot the landscape, both active and abandoned. The closest town to the trailhead, Alma, is just a short 7-mile drive, taking approximately 20 minutes.

Choosing Your Path: Trail Routes to Mount Bross (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Six distinct trails offer various routes to the summit of Mount Bross, catering to different preferences and skill levels. Two of these trails are recommended for snow-only conditions, while another presents a challenging loop route.

A Scenic Ascent: The East Slopes Trail from Mineral Park

The East Slopes Trail, starting at the Dolly Varden Gulch parking lot a short distance into Forest Road 415, offers a 9-mile roundtrip journey. During summer, 4WD vehicles frequently navigate this trail.

Exploring the West Slopes: A Trail with Restrooms and Camping

The West Slopes Trailhead, located west of Colorado 9 near Alma, provides access to a 3.25-mile trail with restrooms and camping options. However, visitors should carefully follow signage, as the area contains ongoing restoration projects.

A Challenging Ascent: The East Slopes Trail from Moose Creek

The East Slopes Trail from Moose Creek offers a 5-mile roundtrip experience, starting from a pull-off inaccessible during winter. To reach this trailhead, travelers drive north on Highway 9, turning left onto County Road 6 and then left onto Quartzville Road. Approximately 6 miles in, an unmarked dirt pull-off marks the trailhead.

A Snow-Covered Challenge: The S Gully Trail (Colorado Fishing Spots)

The S Gully Trail, accessible from the Kite Lake trailhead west of Colorado 9, presents a snow-only route covering 9.5 miles roundtrip from Paris Mill or 6 miles from the Sweet Home Mine.

Snowy Expedition: The Dolly Varden Gully Trail

The Dolly Varden Gully Trail, another snow-only route, offers a 4-mile roundtrip journey. From Colorado 9 in Alma, travelers head toward Kite Lake, turning right onto Forest Road 415 until reaching the parking lot near the Mineral Park mine. During winter, when the Mineral Park road is closed, parking is available at the Paris Mill location, 3 miles below the Mineral Park trailhead.

A Multi-Peak Challenge: The Combo Loop and the Decalibron

For those seeking a multi-peak adventure, the Combo Loop, encompassing the Decalibron, offers a challenging 7.5-mile roundtrip hike, taking approximately 6 to 8 hours. Most hikers begin at Democrat, following a clockwise route past Cameron and Lincoln before culminating at Bross.

Activities Around Mount Bross: Exploring the Pike National Forest (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Pike National Forest, surrounding Mount Bross, provides a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. A fee is required for both parking and camping, payable in cash at any trailhead parking lot.

Camping Under the Stars: Kite Lake Campground

The Kite Lake Campground offers 5 tent-only campsites, each equipped with firepits and picnic tables. These first-come, first-served sites allow visitors to enjoy the serenity of the outdoors. Camping is also permitted beside vehicles in the parking lot.

Fishing in Scenic Beauty: Kite Lake and Lake Emma

For anglers seeking a serene fishing experience, Kite Lake and Lake Emma offer picturesque settings. Both lakes are home to trout, providing a tranquil escape for casting a line. A fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 and older.

Hiking to the Summit: Mount Bross and the Decalibron

For those embarking on the Decalibron challenge, Mount Bross is typically the last peak conquered due to its challenging descent and the presence of private property in the immediate area. Staying on designated trails is essential due to the numerous abandoned mineshafts scattered throughout the area. Poles or walking sticks can be helpful for navigating the descent.

Mount Cameron (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

A 14,000-Foot Peak with a Unique Distinction

While Mount Cameron boasts an impressive elevation of 14,238 feet, it surprisingly falls short of official 14er status. Despite its height, the mountain lacks the required 300-foot prominence into the saddle, a distinction that sets it apart from its neighboring peaks.

Mount Cameron’s History and Access

Despite its unique classification, Mount Cameron remains a popular destination for hikers and climbers, drawing adventurers year-round. In 1874, the area experienced a silver rush, leading to the establishment of mining operations that continue to this day. Much of the surrounding mountain terrain is privately owned by mining companies, limiting access for recreational purposes.

A Shared Landscape: Opening Mount Cameron for Recreation (Colorado Fishing Spots)

In 2005, an agreement between the town of Alma, Colorado, and the mining companies opened up select areas for recreational use. A nominal fee is charged to help manage potential liabilities and ensure responsible access.

Choosing Your Path: Trail Routes to Mount Cameron

Two distinct trails offer access to Mount Cameron: the West Ridge Trail and the Combo Loop, offering options for varying levels of challenge and experience.

A Loop Through History: The Combo Loop and the Decalibron

The Combo Loop, a 7.6-mile roundtrip journey taking approximately 6 to 8 hours, guides hikers through the renowned Decalibron. This challenging loop provides breathtaking views and a unique historical perspective.

A Direct Ascent: The West Ridge Trail (Colorado Fishing Spots)

The West Ridge Trail, starting at Kite Lake, offers a 4.75-mile out-and-back journey, taking 4 to 6 hours to complete. From the middle of Alma, a small Kite Lake sign indicates the direction to the trailhead. The initial 5 miles are relatively smooth, but the final mile can be rougher, requiring caution and safe driving practices.

Exploring the Area: Activities Around Mount Cameron

At the trailhead parking lot, visitors can pay parking and camping fees. The surrounding Pike National Forest offers a variety of additional attractions.

Camping Under the Stars: Kite Lake Campground

The Kite Lake Campground offers five tent-only campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can set up camp beside their vehicles or at designated campsites, each featuring a firepit.

Casting a Line in the Mountains: Fishing in the Area (Colorado Fishing Spots)

For anglers seeking a peaceful escape, the area offers numerous creeks, streams, and lakes, providing breathtaking scenery and opportunities to catch trout in Lake Emma and Kite Lake.

Hiking to the Summit: The Decalibron and Other Trails

While the Decalibron is the most sought-after trail in the area, hikers can explore various trails. The Decalibron, a 7.5-mile roundtrip loop, allows adventurous hikers to conquer four peaks in one trip: Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln, and Bross.

Winter Adventures: Snowmobiling and Cross-Country Skiing

During the winter months, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing become popular activities in the area. However, visitors are reminded to stay on public property and marked trails to ensure safety and respect for the environment.

Mount Democrat (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

A Majestic Peak in the Mosquito Range

Standing tall at 14,148 feet, Mount Democrat proudly claims the 29th highest peak in Colorado. Nestled within the Mosquito Range alongside its neighbors, Mount Bross, Mount Cameron, and Mount Lincoln, Mount Democrat offers a challenging yet rewarding climb, despite its often underestimated “easy” reputation. The high-elevation starting point, though, still classifies this climb as Class 2, demanding preparation and experience.

A Convenient Starting Point: Mount Democrat’s Accessibility

Mount Democrat’s trailhead is conveniently located near the charming town of Alma, making it a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The trailhead, situated at Kite Lake, is the ideal starting point for the Decalibron, a multi-peak challenge.

Exploring the Trails: Routes to the Summit of Mount Democrat (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Mount Democrat offers three distinct trail routes: the East Slope, the South Slope, and the Combo Loop. Each route presents a unique challenge and scenic beauty.

A Straightforward Ascent: The East Slope Trail

The East Slope Trail, readily accessible by driving north on Colorado 9 and turning left onto Buckskin Street, provides a straightforward 4-mile roundtrip hike. The trailhead is located at the Kite Lake parking lot, approximately 6 miles from the turn. The final mile to Kite Lake can be challenging, especially for low-profile or 2WD vehicles, requiring caution and attention.

Snowy Challenge: The South Slope Trail

The South Slope Trail, a snow-only route, offers a 2.5-mile roundtrip journey starting from the same trailhead as the East Slope. Hikers must be prepared for stable snow conditions and equipped with crampons and an ice ax.

A Multi-Peak Challenge: The Combo Loop (Colorado Fishing Spots)

The Combo Loop takes adventurers on a journey through the Decalibron, starting at Mount Democrat and ending at Mount Bross. This challenging 7.5-mile roundtrip loop, taking 6 to 8 hours to complete, offers breathtaking views and a true test of endurance.

Outdoor Activities: Exploring the Area Around Mount Democrat

Visitors can pay parking and camping fees at any trailhead parking lot. The surrounding area, within the Pike National Forest, provides a wealth of activities.

Camping Under the Stars: Kite Lake Campground

The Kite Lake Campground offers five tent-only campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Hikers can also set up camp beside their vehicles in the parking lot. The campground is equipped with firepits, picnic tables, and restrooms.

A Scenic Escape: Fishing in the Area (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Anglers can enjoy peaceful fly-fishing in the area’s creeks and streams. For those seeking larger waters, Emma Lake and Kite Lake offer a chance to catch trout. A fishing license is required for those aged 16 and older.

Hiking to the Summit: Mount Democrat and the Decalibron

Mount Democrat is recognized as one of the easiest 14ers to summit, making it a popular destination during the spring and summer months. For those seeking a greater challenge, the Decalibron offers an opportunity to conquer four peaks in one trip. Mount Democrat is typically the first peak ascended, followed by Cameron and Lincoln, culminating at Mount Bross.

Prepare for the Challenge: Tips for Hiking Mount Democrat

Mount Democrat offers breathtaking views and scenery, creating an unforgettable hiking experience. Bringing a pole or walking stick is advisable, especially when undertaking the Decalibron.

Mount Harvard (Colorado Fishing Spots)

Colorado Fishing Spots

A Majestic Mountain Beckons: Exploring Mount Harvard

Rising dramatically from the San Isabel National Forest near Buena Vista, Mount Harvard stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur. This imposing peak, reaching a height of 14,420 feet, is a Class 2 mountain, meaning it is moderately challenging for experienced hikers. Fittingly, the first Harvard Mining School class of 1869 bestowed upon it the name of their esteemed university. As part of the Collegiate Peaks, Mount Harvard is the tallest peak within this group, and it holds the fourth-highest summit in the contiguous United States.

Diverse Routes to the Summit

Mount Harvard offers six distinct trails, each presenting a unique journey to its summit. Two of these routes are exclusively accessible during winter when snow blankets the mountain, while one combines elements of both summer and winter trails.

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The most popular trails are the South Slopes and West Slopes routes. Both begin at the same trailhead, offering a convenient starting point. The South Slopes route covers approximately 14 miles roundtrip, while the West Slopes route is slightly shorter at 11.5 miles. For those seeking a more adventurous climb, the Southeast Ridge route presents a challenging 12-mile roundtrip. Its trailhead is located a short distance from the South Slopes route.

Embrace the Winter Wonderland

Two dedicated snow-only routes, the South Face and Southwest Couloir, offer a thrilling winter experience. These 14-mile roundtrip trails share a trailhead with the South Slopes route and are best explored when the mountain is adorned with snow. For those seeking a challenging multi-day expedition, the Harvard and Columbia Traverse route, also sharing a trailhead with the South Slopes route, combines elements of both summer and winter trails. However, this route is not recommended for novice hikers due to its challenging terrain and lack of clearly marked trails.

Immerse Yourself in Nature’s Bounty

Mount Harvard is surrounded by a wealth of natural beauty, inviting visitors to enjoy various outdoor activities. Dispersed camping is permitted near the trailhead and around the numerous lakes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

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Fishing enthusiasts will find solace in the pristine waters of Cottonwood Creek, Cottonwood Lake, Anglemeyer Lake, and Bear Lake, where they can cast their lines in pursuit of their catch. A fishing license is required for anyone over 16 years of age.

Hiking and Mountaineering Adventures

The standard routes offer scenic hikes with spectacular views of three fourteeners and trails above treeline. These well-traveled paths are particularly popular during the warmer months. For a truly unique experience, explore the snow-only routes during winter. Snowshoeing, rock climbing, and cross-country skiing offer an opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of Mount Harvard blanketed in pristine snow.

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Remember to always prepare for changing weather conditions, pack adequate snacks, and bring plenty of water for your journey.















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