Basecamp Colorado is Glenwood Springs Colorado

Community Center
An 11-acre parcel with a 72,000 square foot facility has a great four person climbing wall with instructors on staff. A full gym with many treadmills, machines, indoor jogging track, and a bench and Smith Rack. Multiple community rooms that are available for your functions that can hold 350 people. Four high speed internet computers, fitness area that includes yoga classes, a spin room that features Lemond spinning cycles withn classes. Child care for people using the facilities including Kid Camp in the summer and a full size covered ice rink. Free skating for a couple of hours each day and multiple hockey leagues all winter. An indoor swimming pool with a lap pool, a low dive area, and a kids pool with multiple water features including a water slide and a hot tub, jacuzzi.

Posted by Brett at 09:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Park East
One of Glenwood's newer parks along the Roaring Fork River. It has a small gazebo and education kiosk and is along the bike path in this subdivision. At the edge you can overlook the Roaring Fork.

Sopris Park
Glenwood's newest ball parks located next to Sopris Elementary School in South Glenwood. This is the location of much of elementary kids soccer and baseball.

Three Mile Park
This 3-acre neighborhood park is located in the Glenwood Park subdivision and offers picnic tables, playground and a sand volleyball court. A neighborhood park, local kids play here.

Horseshoe Bend
Along the Colorado River on the bike path between Glenwood and No Name lies a 16-acre park with picnic tables and great canyon views. Can be reached by the Bike path only. A great place for a picnic as you are right in Glenwood Canyon. This is also a fishing access. Used as a rest area by local rafting companies. Can often see Bighorn Sheep.

Glenwood Park
This 4-acre park is situated by Sopris Elementary School and features a basketball court and soccer field. This is also the local pitch for the Defiance Rugby Club. Usually has a portable toilet during the summer.

Sister Lucy Downey Park
A small park located on Highways 6 and 24, which has a few picnic tables. A grass area next to the truck stop and fast food restaurants. Local kids play here accassionally.

Gregory Park
Located in West Glenwood on Center Drive, this 1.5-acre neighborhood park features a playground, picnic shelter, and horseshoe pit. A little hard to find but a comfortable place. Creek not far away. Locals Park

Centennial Park
This small park is located in downtown Glenwood on the 800 block of Grand Avenue. Centennial Park has picnic tables and an information kiosk. Lots of city activities take place here. Farmers Market, pancake breakfasts, nice proximity to downtown, next to Grand Avenue.

Two Rivers Park
Our largest developed park is located at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers. This 22-acre park has river access and plenty of parking. The Glenwood Skate Park is located here and features a variety of ramps, rails and pipes. The park includes restrooms, lighted fields, picnic areas, two park shelters, a new playground, and horseshoe pits. Two Rivers Park is home to a variety of concerts at the large outdoor amphitheatre. Storm King Fire Memorial is in the park. There is a boat ramp, multiple shelters and lots of room. Built on the property of the old Lime plant - Basic Chemical. This is a great place to picnic, fly a kite, play frisbee. Lots of musical venues happen here all summer including the Summer of Jazz.

Vogelaar
Located adjacent to Glenwood Springs Elementary School, Vogelaar's 4-acre park has a playground and a softball field with lights. Mostly for softball and kids baseball. The playground is good for kids.

Veltus Park
Located at the corner of Midland Avenue and 8th Street along the Roaring Fork River, this 8-acre park, also called Kiwanis Park, has three picnic shelters, two with water and lights. The park has two sets of restrooms, picnic tables, volleyball court, barbeque pits and a new playground. Park amenities include tennis and basketball courts, horseshoe pits and a wheelchair-accessible fishing ramp. SOme Boat access. Fishing access. The primary horseshoe pits in the area. The trees, river and quitness of this park makes it a good picnic area. May be crowded on summer weekend days.

Sayre Park
This 7.6-acre park is located in the center of Glenwood Springs and features a variety of amenities including a playground, two picnic shelters, and restrooms. The park also features two tennis courts, baseball fields and a basketball court, all with new lights, as well as volleyball courts and a lighted gazebo. New playground was installed December 2002. The location of Strawberry Days. Tennis and Basketball as well as baseball takes place here.

Axtell Park
This .5-acre neighborhood park is located just behind the Chamber of Commerce on Grand Ave, downtown. It offers picnic tables, a barbeque, and restrooms; a new playground surrounded by ADA-accessible walkways. Small Secluded, a locals park but a good place for a picnic.

Posted by Brett at 09:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Go south out of Glenwood and turn left on County Road 115, Red Canyon. This will be a dirt raod that turns to chip and seal further up. When the road flattens out on Spring Valley, stay to the left and then take County Road 120 to the left. Head uphill until you reach the parking lot on the right, 1.5 miles. There are some shortcuts here, you will get where you need as long as you head uphill. Take either of the dirt roads at the back of the parking lot and stay to the right. This is the trail to Hubbards Cave. This is a dirt 4-wheel drive road and is maintained by the local 4 wheel drive club, garbage pick-up? The road will be up and down but basically still going uphill until you hit the gate at the top of the hill. Head downhill and then back up hill. Go straight you will go to hubbards Cave. Not the most technical road but can get nasty when wet. Check out caving manuals for more on the cave.

Posted by Brett at 06:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Bear Creek is often thought of as one of the best singletracks in Colorado. It is built on an abandoned irrigation ditch, so it is level (once you get there) and travels around the rim of the west end of Glenwood Canyon. This is an 18 mile loop from town, will climb 2000 ft., and will take you through tall pine forests. 8 miles uphill, 9 miles level singletrack, and 2 miles technical downhill on Scout Trail. This is mostly ridden in a clockwise fashion. Go south out of Glenwood and turn left on County Road 115, Red Canyon. This will be a dirt raod that turns to chip and seal further up. You can access this by riding south on the River Bike Trail and then following old Highway 82. When the road flattens out on Spring Valley, stay to the left and then take County Road 120 to the left. Head uphill until you reach the parking lot on the right, 1.5 miles. There are some shortcuts here, you will get where you need as long as you head uphill. Take either of the dirt roads at the back of the parking lot and stay to the right. This is the trail to Hubbards Cave. This is a dirt 4-wheel drive road and is maintained by the local 4 wheel drive club, garbage pick-up? The road will be up and down but basically still going uphill until you hit the gate at the top of the hill. Head downhill and take the left as soon as the road starts back up hill. (If you go straight you will go to hubbards Cave.) The trail now is and old road that is grown over and trees have fallen over, there are some forks to the left but stay on the main road. You will come to a big Grove of Aspen trees with a spring to your right, look for the watercress. After this, within 200 yards look for thesingletrack taking off up and to the left. Voila, Just stay on the single track. When you break out above Glenwood Springs you will intersect Scout Trail, downhill will take you to town and the top of 8th street. Technical downhill. This is a popular trail for hikers and bikers and dogs. Please be alert and let hikers know you are coming.Photo Tour

Posted by Brett at 06:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Status of this trail system is pending the sale of this Ranch.

Posted by Brett at 06:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Lookout Mountain is a road to the top of the mounatin to the east of Glenwood Springs. This was built to erect a tower at the top of the mountain. For a biker this will be an 8 mile up hill from town on a maintained gravel and then dirt road. At the top of the maountain you can link to Scout Trail, a 4 mile single track descent. At the top of the mountain you will look south past Sopris, Daly and see the Big Burn at Snowmass. Go south out of Glenwood and turn left on County Road 115, Red Canyon. This will be a dirt raod that turns to chip and seal further up. You can access this by riding south on the River Bike Trail and then following old Highway 82. When the road flattens out on Spring Valley, stay to the left and then take County Road 120 to the left. Head uphill until you reach the tower around the front of the mounatin where the road ends. Look for the picnic table and trail head on the left. The top part of Scout Trail can be rutted, be careful. Hikers use this trail so let them know you are coming. This is a popular area for students and their trucks, but not much four wheeling really. Pack your trash out. Paragliders use this area for staging.

Posted by Brett at 06:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Transfer Trail leads to the hills to the North of Glenwood Springs and will take you up to the Flattops.. It begins from Travers Road, off Rt. 6 between Glenwood Springs and West Glenwood. Go west under the tram and take a right, a quarter mile up you will see a road to the right with the trail head sign. The first part of this is a maintained gravel road used heavily by the Glenwood Caverns and quarry trucks. At the first saddle where you can look into No Name the road turns into a rocky four wheel drive road heading North. This raod will be a long solid uphill. 9 miles will get you to Windy Point. Those who make it will catch one of the best views in Colorado looking into the No Name Drainage. At this point the road flattens out all the way across the Flattops.At various places along the way you can get views south to downtown GS, west to West Glenwood, and east to No Name. This is a popular four wheel drive road as some place can be a little technical. There are some forks but they all lead to the same place as long as you head up. Another good view is the Oasis Creek Overlook on the drainage to the west. Going down this road from Windy Point will offer the biker to have the funnest downhill in the state. There are many rollers on straight, downhill, smooth dirt that one catch good air. Avoid this road when it is raining, it is steep and slick.

Posted by Brett at 05:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Glenwood Springs most famous and popular tourist attraction is the Hot Springs Lodge and Pool. Sitting right in the middle of town this is the first thing people notice as they drive through. With the design of architect Theodore Von Rosenberg and the Peachblow Sandstone buildings, this and the Hotel Colorado along with the train station define the ambiance of Glenwood Springs. The overall length of the pools is 529 ft., and a widest point of 100ft., this is the world's largest natural hot spring pool. The spring, Yampah puts out 3.5 million gallons of water a day at a temperature of 124 degrees farenheit. This is cooled for the Hot Pool to 106 degrees and 98 degrees for the large pool. The pool has two waterslides that are open in the summer months, and swim lanes for workouts. A snack bar and lounge chair rental, restaurant, sport shop, hotel, and an athletic club that besides a full workout facility offers the only raquetball/handball courts in town.

The Yampah Spring was a sacred place for the Ute Indians and the tribe spent most winters here. Claiming discovery by the white man Isaac Cooper earlier than 1885, the property, as was the west, was taken from the Utes by Walter Devereux at this time. Devereux became Glenwood's biggest developer and champion. The bathhouse and pool was completed in 1888. The waters of the spring became known for the healing qualities and Glenwood Springs became a popular tourist town hosting people of the stature of President Theodore Roosevelt. During WWII the town became an hospital for veterans using the pool to help in the healing. In 1956 the pool was aquired by 22 Glenwood Businessmen who in 1961, remodeled the pool and bathhouse.

Posted by Brett at 05:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

July 4th Extravaganza – 4 pm – 9 p.m. – Sopris Park
Acoustic Mayhem – Rockin acoustic stew from one of the local favorites The Gourds - The Gourds are a cold drink of orange soda pop on a hot and dusty day. Somewhere in heaven Doug Sahm is smiling. Many have attempted to personify, lablefly, quantify, verbalize and sanctify the concoction of musical quilts these here gourds have somehow knit together. In a saucepan of slow roasts they have conjured tempo's, tango's, waltzes, zydeco, old timey, two step, lowgrooved, long winded, short tailed, tiny, phat, stompin gizmo's of tunes tripped out of lonely, solid teeth and wet green earth. Bugs all bedazzled with this comic tear soaked golden throated close harmony caved in a corner with hat drippin' rain. The Gourds played Mountain Fair two years ago on a Friday night and the crowd loved them! www.thegourds.com

Sunday, July 9 – 6 – 9 pm Sopris Park
The Mammals – People think that The Mammals have pushed and broadened the boundaries of folk music. They think they’ve just started. With the combined power of Appalachain fiddle-banjo alchemy, their own contemporary lyric poetry and a dynamic rock and roll rhythm section, The Mammals look to the future with warm blooded enthusiasm. www.themammals.net

Sunday, July 16 – 6 – 9 pm – Sopris Park
Toubob Krewe – Blending Malian, American, and “Dirty South” influences into a genre all its own, “Toubab Krewe has set a new standard for fusions of rock ‘n roll and West African music” says Afropop Worldwide. Toubab will be playing some of the biggest festivals in the US this summer including Bonaroo, The John F. Kennedy Center and High Sierra Music Fest. www.toubabkrewe.com/

Sunday, July 23 – 6 – 9 p.m. – Sopris Park
Henry Butler – “He is the pride of New Orleans, a visionistacle, downhome cat, and a hellified piano plunker to boot” Dr. John. Henry Butler is as good as it gets having played with the best in the blues and jazz worlds and the only reason we are lucky enough to get him is he lost his home in Hurricane Katrina and has relocated to Bouler. Henry has played Summer of Jazz and Aspen Jazz Fest. www.henrybutler.com. He will be playing Carnegie Hall and Sopris Park this summer!

Saturday, August 12
KDNK Blues and BBQ Fest – 3 – 9 p.m. Main Street
Eddie Turner - Otherworldly”, “scorching”, “polyrhythmic” and “chilling” have all been used to describe Eddie Turner’s guitar playing. His ethereal style is an amalgam of the Afro-Cuban rhythms of his heritage and the music that influenced him as a teenager: Chicago blues, jazz, r&b and psychedelic rock. The Cuban-born singer/guitarist performed at the Telluride Blues and Brews Festival in 2005 and has a well received new CD out called Rise. www.eddiedevilboy.com

Saturday, August 25
Final Street Dance – 6 – 9 p.m. – 4th Street Plaza
KanNal – KanNal thrilled wet audiences last year at the Carbondale Mountain Fair and are back by demand. This is a show filled with fire, dance grooves and spirit. www.kannal.org

Posted by Brett at 02:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The concerts are FREE to the public and are held at Two River Park every Wednesday evening in the summer beginning at 7:00pm. The series is regularly touted in “Downbeat Magazine” as Colorado’s premier Jazz Music Concert Series. Bring your cooler, bring your low chair, bring your wallet (we sell highly attractive T Shirts and memberships) but leave your attitude and your dog at home.
June 7 - Dr. Michael White
June 14 - The Jordan Family
June 21 - Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews and Orleans Avenue
June 28 - The Jason Marsalis / Jonathan Batiste Trio
July 5 - Wild Magnolias 6:00 PM - Terrance Simien & The Zydeco Experience 7:00 PM
July 12 - Irvin Mayfield Quintet
July 19 - The Jazz Vipers
July 26 - The Soul Rebels Brass Band

Posted by Brett at 01:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Concerts are at 6:00 to 8:30 on the mountain at the village. Bring a blanket and picnic basket.

June 29 - TAB BENOIT - Brilliant New Orleans Guitarist - Vocalist and Master of Crescent City Funk and Rock

July 6 - THE IGUANAS - Cajun New Orleans Rock - Always a Party!

July 13 - PAPA GROWS FUNK - Funkiest act to emerge from the Crescent City in years.

July 20 - THE SUBDUDES - New Orleans-flavored Americana that just feels good inside and out.

July 27 - L'IL ED & THE BLUES IMPERIALS - Searing Chicago Electric Blues

Aug 3 - SOULIVE - Founding Fathers of Contemporary Soul Meets Jazz Meets Funk

Aug 10 - JON CLEARY & THE ABSOLUTE MONSTER GENTLEMEN - Bonnie Raitt's Longtime Keyboard Artist From the Crescent City, Absolutely New Orleans

Aug 17 - TBA

Aug 24 - SAM BUSH - Longtime Associate of Bela Fleck - Brilliant Bluegrass Meets Jazz Mandolin Master

Posted by Brett at 01:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This old Shamrock Gas Station goes under the radar of most people in the valley. Next to the Smoke Shop isn't a very enticing setting for an eatery. But I got to tell you this place has the best barbeque beef sandwich around. Nothing but brisket and BBQ sauce. Don't order spicy unless your sure you want it. The interior is kind of funky but comfortable and you can fill er up while you are there.

Posted by Brett at 01:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

A new company to Glenwood Springs, Adventure Paragliding offers tandem jumps off of Red Mountain, Landing on city property adjacent to the Roaring Fork River. If you have ever had the desire, now is the time. Daily.

Posted by Brett at 01:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Shoshone Rapids are a section of the Colorado River from Grizzly Creek to Shoshone power plant in Glenwood Canyon. This section is world famous for it's 2 1/2 miles of rapids in late spring and early summer, high water. There is a nice put in at the power plant but it can only be accessed via I-70 from the eastbound lanes. Westbound traffic will have to go to Grizzly Creek and turn around. The first Rapid out is Embarassment Rock, then you will go down past Big Eddie into Baptism. After Baptism you can regroup behind Eddie Out Rock. Next is Tuttles' Tumble named after a longtime Glenwood Resident. Coming up is Big Wave and then Martys' Diner, Marker Rock, into Pinball Alley a series of rocks and waves. You will go past China Wall, reinforcing the DR&GW Railroad, to Pour Over and then to what Kayakers refer to as All Day Wave because of the ability to hang out in it for long stretches. From There you will go to Blender, past Spill Over, Tombstone Rock, Wrapper Rock, to Cotton Mouth Eddie. From there you can hit Lateral Wave, Maneater, another Lateral Wave into Taco Hole. Some of these rapids get to Class 4. During peak season many rafters and kayakers will do laps, using two vehicles. Parking at Shoshone is minimal and not encouraged. This section of river parallels the Glenwood Canyon Bike path making for the opportunity for good photography.

Posted by Brett at 10:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This is Americas most popular trail. It will take you 2.3 miles up the walls of Glenwood Canyon crossing the creek many times. This is a steep hike but for those who make it they will be rewarded with the view of Hanging Lake. A crystal blue lake that hangs on a ledge of the canyon. Take a little extra time to see spouting rock above the lake, the trail forks before you get to the lake. There are dangerous parts on this trail like the last steps up to the lake. This trail is heavily used so stay on the trails and no dogs. No cigarette butts either please. Get off at the Hanging Lake exit in Glenwood Canyon. This can only be done eastbound so west bound traffic will have to go to Grizzly Creek and turn around. Parking can be scarce on summer afternoons. A good day is to ride a bike out from Glenwood and then hike the trail.
Coffee Pot Springs Trail forks off of this trail and will take you to the Flattops, this is a long hike.

Posted by Brett at 03:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This is also called the Jeanne Golay trail in honor of Glenwoods' Olympic Cyclist. This is 3 miles all gradual uphill, maintained dirt road ending at the cross. This is the hill where Glenwoods first ski area was located and you are basically going up the old service road. Then when they decided they needed more snow they moved it higher on the mountain, before creating Sunlight Ski area. You can still see the remnants of the old ski lift. The switchbacks offer beautiful views of Glenwood Springs and the Raoring Fork Valley. For good riders you can follow the single track down the ridge of the mountain. Look for the signs. This is a tight single track and is difficult to clean it. Red Mountain is popular with hikers and dogs. To cet here cross the Roaring Fork on 8th Street Bridge and turn right at the light. Then take your first left and then veer to the right uphill at the next right and go around the gate. A lot of early summer bear encounters and minor car traffic as Adventure Paragliding Uses this as their base.

Posted by Brett at 02:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Vance's Cabin is located on a timbered mountainside near Tennessee Pass at 10,980' about 10 miles north of the town of Leadville, and about 4 miles north of Ski Cooper ski area. Construction of the cabin began in 1981 and was completed in 1988. The hut is named in honor of one of the original owner's father Vance Faulkenberg, who was involved in building the cabin using timber from the site.

Capacity: 6 beds upstairs in a loft and 10 bunk beds downstairs in a communal sleeping area. Sleeps 16. Oven: Propane Sauna: No

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Chicago Ridge [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Leadville
USGS Map: Pando
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Tennessee Pass, elevation 10,424', Total Mileage 3.1
• Trailhead: Jackal Hut, elevation 11,660', Total Mileage 8.5
• Trailhead: South Camp Hale, elevation 9,280', Total Mileage 7.9

Note: F.S. Road 731 is NOT a winter trailhead for Vance's Cabin. Any cars parked on F.S. 731 will be towed.

Note: Parking for Vance's Cabin at the Ski Cooper parking lot is only available adjacent to the trailhead, which is marked by 10th Mountain Hut Parking signs. Vehicles parked in the middle of the general parking area - far from the trailhead - are a significant problem for Ski Cooper when they plow the general parking area, and these vehicles may be towed.

Note: You may encounter Ski Cooper snowmobiles and/or snowcats on the first ¾ mile of the suggested route to Vance’s from the Ski Cooper Trailhead. Please expect and respect all users.

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Highway 24, F.S. road 731 to the hut, Total Mileage 2. Note: there is no parking on F.S. 731. Parking is available on Tennesse Pass.
• Trailhead: Jackal Hut, elevation 11,660' Route: F.S. road 755, F.S. road 714, Hwy 24, F.S. road 731 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.3 (please see Jackal Hut for information on summer closure of F.S. road 755) hut, Total Mileage 9.7

Posted by Brett at 02:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Uncle Bud's Hut, owned by 10th Mountain, is similar in aspect and construction to the 10th Mountain Division Hut. Views from the south window-wall include a panorama of 14,421-foot Mount Massive and the bare pate of Bald Eagle Mountain. The hut was built as a memorial to 10th Mountain Division veteran Bud Winter (1925-1945), who was killed in action in Italy during World War II, and was one of 33 soldiers who completed the legendary "trooper traverse" winter ski crossing from Leadville to Aspen in February of 1944. Funds for the hut were given by Bud's brother, Dr. Fred Winter. His sister Laura contributed the proceeds from her poetry book Laura's Lines.

This hut, combined with the Skinner Hut and BettyBear Hut, allows travel over Hagerman Pass to the Frying Pan drainage, thus forming a huge loop that strong skiers can enjoy. Uncle Bud's Hut is is another of 10th Mountain's more alpine hostels. It sits just under the Continental Divide, about 10 miles northwest of the town of Leadville, in central Colorado at 11,380'. Uncle Bud's Hut is very accessible from Leadville via a moderate trailhead-to-hut route from Turquoise Lake. Use this route to reach the hut quickly, then spend a few days base skiing. Or if you're learning backcountry skiing, use this route as a step on your ladder of learning.

Sleeps 16. Oven: Woodburning Sauna: No

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Galena Mountain, also shown on Continental Divide [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Leadville
USGS Map: Homestake Reservoir Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: San Isabel National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Turquoise Lake, elevation 9,760' Route: F.S. road 104, F.S. road 107 to the hut, Total Mileage 5.9
• Trailhead: Skinner Hut, elevation 11,620' Route: Glacier Creek Trail, Colorado Trail to the hut, Total Mileage 7
• Trailhead: 10th Mountain Division Hut, elevation 11,370', Total Mileage 7.3

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Turquoise Lake, elevation 9,800' Route: F.S. road 104, F.S. road 107 to the hut, Total Mileage 5.9
• Trailhead: West Turquoise Lake, elevation 10,030' Route: Colorado Trail to the hut, Total Mileage 4
• Trailhead: 10th Mountain Division Hut, elevation 11,370' Route: F.S. road 100, Colorado Trail to the hut, Total Mileage 11.3
• Trailhead: Skinner Hut, elevation 11,620' Route: F.S. road 105, F.S. road 104 (Turquoise Lake Road), F.S. road 107 to the hut, Total Mileage 17.7
• Trailhead: Crane Park, elevation 10,137' Route: F.S. road 100, Colorado Trail to the hut, Total Mileage 9.1
• Trailhead: Tennessee Pass, elevation 10,424' Route: Colorado Trail to the hut, Total Mileage 9.7

Posted by Brett at 02:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Owned by 10th Mountain, Skinner Hut breaks from common design by having only one story. The Continental Divide is close by, as are plenty of other options for high routes and ski descents. Perched at timberline on the east side of Hagerman Pass near the town of Leadville, Skinner Hut is the second highest 10th Mountain hut at 11,620'. A superb view from the hut's east windows includes the 14,036-foot summit of Mount Sherman in the Mosquito Mountains east of Leadville. Skinner Hut is named in honor of William Wood Skinner, 10th Mountain Division veteran. Funding was donated by Skinner's sister Elizabeth Guenzel, with construction completed in 1990.

Because of steep terrain and possible avalanche danger, no route to the Skinner Hut is moderate. Indeed, more than one party has realized that the hut's name comes close to that of an essential piece of equipment for every route to the hut: climbing skins. The Glacier Creek route is the most popular ascent to the Skinner Hut, but involves an extremely steep climb and descent. Busk Creek has easier skiing, but involves more route-finding and distance. Skiing from the Skinner Hut to Betty Bear Hut via Hagerman Pass is relatively benign, but does involve plenty of travel above treeline where wind and whiteouts can foil the best mountaineers.

Capacity: 3 small rooms with double beds, additional 10 beds in communal sleeping area. Capacity 16 people. Oven: Woodburning Sauna: No

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Continental Divide, also on Upper Fryingpan [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Leadville, also shown on Aspen
USGS Map: Homestake Reservoir Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: San Isabel National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Turquoise Lake, elevation 9,760' Route: F.S. road 104, Glacier Creek Trail to the hut, Total Mileage 10.6
• Trailhead: Betty Bear Hut, elevation 11,100' Route: Via Hagerman Pass, Total Mileage 4.4
• Trailhead: Uncle Bud's Hut, elevation 11,380' Route: Via Colorado Trail, Glacier Creek Trail to the hut, Total Mileage 7

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: South Turquoise Lake, elevation 10,220' Route: F.S. road 105 to the hut, Total Mileage 6.9
• Trailhead: Turquoise Lake, elevation 9,760' Route: F.S. road 104, F.S. road 105 to the hut, Total Mileage 14.5
• Trailhead: West Turquoise Lake, elevation 10,030' Route: F.S. road 104, F.S. road 105 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.2
• Trailhead: Uncle Bud's Hut, elevation 11,380' Route: Colorado Trail, F.S. road 104, F.S. road 105 to the hut, Total Mileage 13.2
• Trailhead: Uncle Bud's Hut, elevation 11,380' Route: F.S. road 107, F.S. road 104, F.S. road 105 to the hut, Total Mileage 17.7
• Trailhead: Betty Bear Hut, elevation 11,100' Route: F.S. road 527, F.S. road 105 to the hut, Total Mileage 10.9

Posted by Brett at 02:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Shrine Mountain Inn huts and cabins are good for novice backcountry skiers.
Shrine Mountain Inn consists of three separate cabins (Jay's, Chuck's, Walter's) that sleep a total of 36 people. A shared sauna is located between Chuck's and Jay's, and propane grills are provided at each cabin. Shrine Mountain Inn is privately owned and booked through 10th Mountain. Located far enough from paved roads to keep a backcountry mood at 11,209', the cabins of Shrine Mountain Inn are perhaps the least difficult 10th Mountain "ski in" huts to access. An ideal first hut trip, these cabins are 2.7 miles from Interstate Highway 70, Vail Pass Trailhead.

Jay's layout, capacity, and prices:
Capacity 12 total. Upstairs: 1 bedroom with a double bed, 1 bedroom with 2 single beds, 1 single bed in the hall. Main floor: 1 bedroom with a queen. Downstairs: 5 single beds in a communal sleeping area. Hot and cold running water. Two indoor bathrooms with flush toilets, one with shower, one with bathtub. Kitchen has cook oven and stove top, and generator powered lighting. Spaces rent for $41/person/night and may be booked individually.

Chuck's layout, capacity, and prices:
Capacity 12 total, internally divided into two levels, each sleeping six people. Upstairs: 2 bedrooms, 1 with a double bed, 1 with 2 single beds, and 2 single day beds in the main room. Hot and cold running water. Two indoor bathrooms with flush toilets, upstairs has bathtub, downstairs has shower. Wood burning heat stove, propane cook oven and stove top, generator powered lighting. You must rent the entire upstairs (all six spaces) at a rate of $41/person/night ($246/night). Downstairs: layout and amenities are the same as upstairs, (except bathroom has shower), propane heat stove, no deck. Downstairs spaces rent for $27/person/night and may be booked individually.

Walter's layout, capacity, and prices:
Capacity 12 total, internally divided into two levels, each sleeping 6 people. Upstairs: 2 bedrooms: 1 with a queen bed, 1 with 2 single beds, and 2 single day beds in the main room. Hot and cold running water, indoor bathrooms with showers, flush toilets. Propane oven, and generator powered lighting. You must rent the entire upstairs (all six spaces) at a rate of $41/person/night ($246/night). Downstairs: layout and amenities are the same as upstairs, except with a propane heat stove. There is a deck. Downstairs spaces rent for $41/person/night and may be booked individually.

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Resolution Mountain [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Leadville
USGS Map: Vail Pass Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Website: Shrine Mountain Inn
Dates Open: The Shrine Mountain Inn cabins are open all year.
Owned By: Privately owned Oven: Propane Sauna: Yes
Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area Fee
Shrine Mountain Inn is located in the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area. Use of this hut during most of the winter requires payment of additional fees to the U.S. Forest service that will be charged at the time you make your reservation. This is not a parking fee; it applies regardless of which trailhead is used.The $6.00 per person per night fee is in effect from 11/24/05 though 4/16/06, children 14 and under are free. More Information.

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Vail Pass, elevation 10,580' Route: Via non-motorized winter use trail, Total Mileage 2.7. Please note: Use of the motorized winter use route from Vail Pass to Shrine Mountain Inn may result in a $100 fine.
• Trailhead: Fowler-Hilliard, elevation 11,500' Route: Via Shrine Ridge, Total Mileage 6.8
• Trailhead: Redcliff, elevation 8,680' Route: Via Shrine Pass Road, Total Mileage 9.3
• Trailhead: Vail, elevation 8,220', Via the Commando Run, Total Mileage 15.9

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Vail Pass, elevation 10,580' Route: F.S. road 712 to the hut, Total Mileage 2.5
• Trailhead: Redcliff, elevation 8,680' Route: F.S. road 709, F.S. road 712 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.3
• Trailhead: Fowler-Hilliard, elevation 11,500' Route: F.S. road 751, F.S. road 702, F.S. road 714, F.S. road 708, F.S. road 709, F.S. road 712 to the hut, Total Mileage 25.2
• Trailhead: Fowler-Hilliard, elevation 11,500' Route: F.S. road 751, F.S. road 702, F.S. road 747, F.S. road 709, F.S. road 712 to the hut, Total Mileage 12.2

Posted by Brett at 02:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Carl's cabin is one of the more intimate huts. Carl's is a small cabin located near Polar Star Inn (see menu above). It is under the same ownership as Polar Star, but booked separately. The cabin was built in 1993. This information is the same as the Polar Star, except closed in summer.

Capacity: 2 private rooms with double beds, 2 single day beds in the main room. Capacity 6 (all 6 spots must be booked by the same party).
For more information on the Hut System go to www.huts.org

Posted by Brett at 02:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Polar Star Inn is a privately owned backcountry lodge, booked by 10th Mountain. (Another nearby structure, Carl's Cabin, is part of Polar Star but booked separately). Both sit just below timberline on the west side of New York Mountain at 11,040', in central Colorado. Polar Star Inn is a tall-standing structure with a big deck that looks west over the Colorado Plateau: a sunset watcher's paradise. There are five private bedrooms and running water (summer only) that makes kitchen work a snap. The Inn was built in 1987.

Capacity: Downstairs: 1 bedroom with single bunk bed Upstairs: several semi-private bedrooms and a communal sleeping area. Capacity 17. Oven: Woodburning & propane Sauna: NO

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: New York Mountain [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Eagle
USGS Map: Fulford Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Yeoman Park, elevation 9,060' Route: Via Fulford Road, Total Mileage 6.3
• Trailhead: West Lake Creek, elevation 8,220', Total Mileage 7
• Trailhead: Yeoman Park, elevation 9,060 Route: Via Newcomer Spring, Total Mileage 5.8
• Trailhead: Peter Estin Hut, elevation 11,200' Route: Via Ironedge Trail, Total Mileage 8.2

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Yeoman Park, elevation 9,060' Route: F.S. Road 418 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.1
• Trailhead: West Lake Creek, elevation 8,220' Route: F.S. Road 423, Trail 1876, then follow F.S. Road 418 to the parking area and entrance, Total Mileage 6.1
• Trailhead: Peter Estin Hut, elevation 11,200' Route: F.S. road 416, F.S. road 418 to the hut, Total Mileage 16.7
• Trailhead: Peter Estin Hut, elevation 11,200' Route: Trail 1873, F.S. road 415, F.S. road 418 to the hut, Total Mileage 13.5

Posted by Brett at 01:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Built in 1982, McNamara hut was one of the original two huts in the 10th Mountain system (the other is Margy's, built during the same summer). The hut is a memorial to Margy McNamara (as Margy's Hut is as well). Funds to build the hut were donated by Margy's husband Robert, who served as secretary of defense. The hut is owned by 10th Mountain and is only open during the winter season due to a nearby elk herd. Located in Burnt Hole at 10,360' deep in the forest on the north side of Bald Knob (11,092 feet), the McNamara Hut has a cozy secluded feeling that lends itself to sipping tea by the wood burner or exploring the nearby forest. You'll find good intermediate ski touring on Bald Knob, and experts can strike out on long tours east towards the Continental Divide.

Capacity: Bunk room that sleeps 4 downstairs, 1 private room with a dbl bed plus 10 sglbeds in a communal sleeping room upstairs. Capacity 16. Oven: Woodburning Sauna: No

10th Mountain Brochure System Map [section from brochure map]
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Smuggler Mountain [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: (hut closed during summer)
USGS Map: Thimble Rock Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Hunter Creek, elevation 8,380' Route: Via Van Horn Park, Total Mileage 5.7
• Trailhead: Margy's Hut, elevation 11,300' Route: Via Spruce Creek, Total Mileage 8.2
• Trailhead: Benedict Huts, elevation 10,970' Not a 10th Mountain suggested route. Due to Forest Service Primitive Wilderness designation, no cleared trail or trail markings are allowed in the No Name Creek drainage. The route between the McNamara and Benedict Huts is very difficult and rarely skied in either direction. Total Mileage 8.
• Trailhead: New Upper Hunter Creek Trailhead, There is a recently-developed skier drop-off/parking area (with very limited parking) for visitors to the McNamara, Fritz and Fabi Benedict Huts that can make it easier to access these huts. Use this link for additional information. New Hunter Creek Parking Info

• Closed in Summer

Posted by Brett at 01:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Built in 1982, Margy's Hut (along with the McNamara Hut) was one of the first two huts in the 10th Mountain system. The building of these two huts represented a major step for the fledgling organization, which had to promise the Forest Service that the huts would be razed if they were not used. Hut construction was funded by Robert McNamara (former secretary of defense) and friends, in memorial to Robert's wife Margy. Margy's Hut is located on a lightly treed hillside just below timberline, about 10 miles northeast of the city of Aspen, Colorado. The hut has beautiful views of the Elk Mountains to the south and sits at 11,300'.

Capacity: Bunk room that sleeps 4 downstairs, 1 private room with a dbl bed plus 10 sgl beds in a communal sleeping room upstairs, Sleeps 16. Oven: Woodburning Sauna: No

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Smuggler Mountain, also shown on Mount Yeckel [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Aspen
USGS Map: Meredith Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Lenado, elevation 8,640' Route: Via Johnson Creek Trail, Total Mileage 6.3
• Trailhead: Norrie, elevation 8,440' Route: F.S. road 504, Trail 1927 to Sawmill Park, Total Mileage 7.6 Spring Snow Plowing of U.S. Forest Service Road 504
Each spring, the Bureau of Reclamation plows roads in the Upper Fryingpan River Drainage to facilitate work on the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project water diversion facilities prior to spring snowmelt. Plowing occurs annually during the months of March or April, depending upon snowpack and work requirements. Hut users accessing Margy's via the Norrie or Granite Lakes trailheads during this time may be affected. For detailed information, including an up-to-date plowing schedule, please contact the U.S. Forest Service Sopris Ranger District at 970-963-2266. This work will not affect hut users accessing Margy's via the Lenado trailhead
• Trailhead: McNamara Hut, elevation 10,360 Route: Via Spruce Creek, Total Mileage 8.2
• Trailhead: Granite Lakes, elevation 9,120' Route: Trail 1920, F.S. road 504 (see snow plowing information above), Trail 1927 to the hut, Total Mileage 8.9

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Lenado, elevation 8,640' Route: Woody Creek, Spruce Creek Trail 1927 to the hut, Total Mileage 7.3
• Trailhead: Lenado, elevation 8,640' Route: F.S. road 103, F.S. road 526 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.7
• Trailhead: Lenado, elevation 8,640' Route: F.S. road 103, Johnson Creek Trail, F.S. road 103, F.S. road 526 to the hut, Total Mileage 6.4
• Trailhead: Lenado, elevation 8,640' Route: F.S. road 103, F.S. road 508, F.S. road 526 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.7
• Trailhead: Rocky Fork Creek, elevation 7,560' Route: F.S. trail 1931, F.S. trail 1930, F.S. road 528, F.S. road 526 to the hut, Total Mileage 12.8
• Trailhead: Norrie, elevation 8,440' Route: F.S. road 504, Spruce Creek Trail 1927 to the hut, Total Mileage 7.8
• Trailhead: Granite Lakes, elevation 8,760' Route: Trail 1920, F.S. Road 504, Spruce Creek Trail 1927 to the hut, Total Mileage 9

Posted by Brett at 01:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Located near timberline in an area used by 10th Mountain troops during their World War II training in the 1940s at Camp Hale, Jackal Hut is the eastern most hut owned by 10th Mountain Divison Hut Association. It is located in central Colorado, on the western slope of the Continental Divide about 15 miles north of the city of Leadville and sits at 11,660'. Jackal Hut has good nearby skiing and terrific views of several stunning 14,000-foot peaks. The hut was built with money donated by Jack Schuss and Al Zesiger, two strong supporters of 10th Mountain (the name is an eponymous combo of Jack-Al).

Capacity: Upstairs: 1 room with a dbl bed, 1 room with 4 sgl beds, and 10 sgl beds in a communal sleeping area. Sleeps 16

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Chicago Ridge [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Leadville
USGS Map: Pando
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area Fee
$6.00 per person per night fee is in effect from 11/24/05 though 4/16/06, children 14 and under are free.

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: South Camp Hale, elevation 9,280' Route: Via Ranch Creek to the hut, Total Mileage 4.7
• Trailhead: Vance's Cabin, elevation 10,980' Route: Via Cataract Creek, Total Mileage 8.5
• Trailhead: Vance's Cabin, elevation 10,980' Route: Via Ranch Creek, Total Mileage 10.3
• Trailhead: Fowler-Hilliard Hut, elevation 11,500' Route: Via Pearl Creek, Total Mileage 7.8

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: South Camp Hale, elevation 9,280' Route: F.S. road 714, F.S. road 755 (extreme 4WD road) to the hut, Total Mileage 3.8
• Trailhead: Fowler-Hilliard Hut, elevation 11,500' Route: F.S. road 751, F.S. road 702, F.S. road 714, F.S. road 755 to the hut, Total Mileage 13.1
• Trailhead: Fowler-Hilliard Hut, elevation 11,500' Route: F.S. road 751, F.S. road 702, F.S. road 715 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.4
• Trailhead: Vance's Cabin, elevation 10,980' Route: F.S. road 731, Hwy 24, F.S. road 714, F.S. road 755 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.3
• Trailhead: Vance's Cabin, elevation 10,980' Route: F.S. road 731, Hwy 24, Colorado Trail, F.S. trail 726, F.S. road 714, F.S. road 755 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.4

Posted by Brett at 01:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Built in 1986, Harry Gates Hut was the fourth structure added to the 10th Mountain system. It is located in the Sawatch Mountain foothills of central Colorado at 9,700', about 15 miles northeast of Aspen, and about 17 miles south of Interstate Highway 70. Nearby peaks rise above 12,000 feet.It is the largest of the 10th Mountain owned huts, with two floors that can sleeps 16. Gates Hut windows look out on sunsets and spectacular Avalanche Ridge. The hut was built with funds from the Gates Foundation in memorial to the late Harry F. Gates, who was an outdoorsman with deep love for the mountains.

Capacity: 6 sgl beds downstairs, 2 bedrooms upstairs with one dbl bed each, plus 6 beds in a communal sleeping area upstairs. Sleeps 16. Oven: Woodburning Sauna: No

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Burnt Mountain, also shown on Mount Yeckel [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Eagle, also shown on Aspen
USGS Map: Crooked Creek Pass Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Parking/Route Changes for Harry Gates Hut
Due to the closure of the Diamond J Ranch, the parking for the Harry Gates Hut has changed. Please park in the NEW PARKING LOT located 3/10 of a mile downvalley at 26501 Fryingpan River Road (= 3/10 mile West of the old Diamond J). The parking is on the North side of the road. Please park in the designated area and do not block the driveway. Space is limited and carpooling is suggested. NEW SUGGESTED ROUTE DIRECTIONS: From the Parking Area, follow driveway northeast for 1/10 mile, then follow the new trail detour (marked with blue diamonds), which soon connects with the Montgomery Flats route shown on 10th Mountain's "Burnt Mountain" map. Please follow the suggested route and respect private property.

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Caufield property designated parking area (see parking/route information above), elevation 8,200' Route: Via Montgomery Flats, Total Mileage 6.9
• Trailhead: Spring Creek, elevation 8,440', Total Mileage 7.8
• Trailhead: Peter Estin Hut, elevation 11,200' Route: Via Little Lime Creek Ridge Trail, Total Mileage 7
• Trailhead: Peter Estin Hut, elevation 11,200' Route: Via Crooked Creek Pass, Total Mileage 9.6
• Trailhead: Sylvan Lake, elevation 8,558', Total Mileage 10.8

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Road 506 (Burnt Mountain Road), elevation 8,820' Route: F.S. road 506 to the hut, Total Mileage 8.3
• Trailhead: Spring Creek, elevation 8,440' Route: F.S. road 400, F.S. road 507, F.S. road 506 to the hut, Total Mileage 10.6
• Trailhead: Peter Estin Hut, elevation 11,200' Route: F.S. road 416, F.S. road 400, F.S. road 507, F.S. road 506 to the hut, Total Mileage 10.2
• Trailhead: Sylvan Lake, elevation 8,558' Route: F.S. road 400, F.S. road 507, F.S. road 506 to the hut, Total Mileage 10.8d, Total Mileage 1.8

Posted by Brett at 01:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Sited at timberline about one-half mile northeast of Resolution Mountain at 11,500', Fowler-Hilliard has incredible views and acres of gladed ski terrain. Fowler-Hilliard Hut is located in a group of high mountains about 6 miles west of Vail Pass. The hut was built in 1988 with funds from over 260 people and businesses. It is a memorial to Ann Fowler and Ed Hilliard, climbers who died in an accident on North Maroon Peak near Aspen.

Capacity: Upstairs: 1 room with a dbl bed, 1 room with 4 sgl beds, and 10 sgl beds in a communal sleeping area. Sleeps 16. Oven: Woodburning Sauna: No

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Chicago Ridge, also shown on Resolution Mountain [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Leadville
USGS Map: Pando Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area Fee
This hut is located in the Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area and has a $6.00 per person per night fee in effect from 11/24/05 though 4/16/06, children 14 and under are free.
Winter Trail Access

• Trailhead: Camp Hale, elevation 9,250' Route: Via Resolution Creek, Total Mileage 6.5
• Trailhead: Pando, elevation 9,200' Route: Via McAllister Gulch, Total Mileage 5
• Trailhead: Jackal Hut, elevation 11,660' Route: Via Pearl Creek, Total Mileage 7.8
• Trailhead: Shrine Mountain Inn, elevation 11,209', Total Mileage 6.8
• Trailhead: Redcliff, elevation 8,680', Total Mileage 10.5

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Pando, elevation 9,200' Route: F.S. road 714, F.S. road 702, F.S. road 751 to the hut, Total Mileage 8.3
• Trailhead: Jackal Hut, elevation 11,660' Route: F.S. road 755, F.S. road 714, F.S. road 702, F.S. road 751 to the hut, Total Mileage 13.1 (please see Jackal Hut for information on summer closure of F.S. road 755)
• Trailhead: Jackal Hut, elevation 11,660' Route: F.S. road 715, F.S. road 702, F.S. road 751 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.4
• Trailhead: Redcliff, elevation 8,680' Route: F.S. road 709, F.S. road 747, F.S. road 751 to the hut, Total Mileage 8.2
• Trailhead: Vail Pass, elevation 10,580' Route: F.S. road 712, F.S. road 709, F.S. road 747, F.S. road 751 to the hut, Total Mileage 14

Posted by Brett at 01:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The rugged peaks of Colorado's Gore Range backdrop the Eiseman Hut at 11,180', 10th Mountain's most alpine hostel. located north of Interstate Highway 70, about 7 miles north of Vail resort. Indeed, terrain rules this amazing location: out of the hut door is arguably the best sking of any 10th hut, and farther afield, tall Colorado alps entice with glistening faces and snow filled couloirs. On top of that, the hut boasts a stunning and unique view of the Vail resort ski slopes.

Built in summer of 1996, Eiseman Hut was funded by Dr. Ben Eiseman and a number of charitable foundations.

Capacity: 2 private bedrooms with dbl beds, and 12 single beds in a communal sleeping area. Sleeps 16. Oven:Woodburning Sauna: No

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Gore Range [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Gore Range
USGS Maps: Vail West and Vail East Quadrangles
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: Arapaho National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Spraddle Creek, elevation 8,620' Route: Spraddle Creek jeep road, Middle Creek Trail to the hut, Total Mileage 6.8
• Trailhead: Red Sandstone Creek, elevation 8,620' Route: F.S. road 700, F.S. road 786, F.S. road 719 to the hut, Total Mileage 7.9

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Red Sandstone Creek, elevation 8,620' Route: F.S. road 700, F.S. road 786, F.S. road 719 to the hut, Total Mileage 9.6
• Trailhead: Eiseman Hut, elevation 11,180' Downhill Biking or Hiking Route: F.S. road 719, F.S. road 786, F.S. road 700, F.S. road 734, F.S. road 787 to Buffehr Creek Trailhead, elevation 8,220', Total Mileage 15.7

Posted by Brett at 01:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Betty Bear Hut is located in central Colorado, between the cities of Leadville and Aspen, on the western slope of the Continental Divide near Hagerman Pass. Betty Bear Hut is a terrific destination for intermediate backcountry skiers, although the steep section from Road 505 to the hut can be challenging for skiers with less than strong intermediate skiing skills on the ascent and descent. THis hut sits at 11,100' and the trail may not be accessible in April due to snow plowing. It's located near the Continental Divide, surrounded by a variety of terrain, and accessed via a long, snow-covered road that's a beautiful run on light touring equipment (albeit with the aforementioned short, steeper climb as the final test before reaching the hut).

Capacity: 3 private rooms with dbl beds, 1 bunk, and 8 beds in a communal sleeping area. Capacity 16. Oven: Woodburning Sauna: No

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Upper Fryingpan [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Aspen
USGS Map: Nast Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Road 505, elevation 9,120' Route: F.S. road 505, ski trail to the hut, Total Mileage 6.9
The suggested parking for this route is at the designated Road 505 trailhead, regardless of plowing status. For detailed information, including an up-to-date plowing schedule, please contact the U.S. Forest Service Sopris Ranger District at 970-963-2266.
• Trailhead: Skinner Hut, elevation 11,620', Total Mileage 4.4

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Road 105, elevation 9,140' Route: F.S. road 105, F.S. road 527 to the hut, Total Mileage 17.3
•Trailhead: Skinner Hut, elevation 11,620' Route: F.S. road 105, F.S. road 527 to the hut, Total Mileage 10.9
• Trailhead: Road 505, elevation 9,120' Route: F.S. road 505, Trail 1907 to the hut, Total Mileage 6.5

Posted by Brett at 01:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fritz Benedict hut is More aesthetic and inviting than Fabi's Hut nextdoor. Tucked into the wilderness about 5 miles southeast of Aspen at 10,970 feet, the Benedict Huts are two beautifully crafted cabins built in 1997. The Benedict Huts form a pleasing link between the McNamara Hut and Aspen, as well as providing access to a vast area of virtually untouched winter wilderness to the east of the huts.

It was Fritz, along with a small group of Aspenites, who first conceived of the hut system and then started it.These huts are in honor of the late Fritz Benedict and his wife Fabi, the spiritual parents of the 10th Mountain Hut System.

Capacity: Fritz Hut has 3 small bedrooms with dbl beds, 3 single beds in the main room, and 1 daybed. Capacity is 10. Fabi's has single daybeds that double as couches, a double bed in the main room, and 1 separate bedroom with a double bed. Capacity is 6 and hut must be booked by a single party. Oven: Propane

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Smuggler Mountain [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: hut closed
USGS Maps: Aspen and Thimble Rock Quadrangles
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: White River National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Hunter Creek, elevation, 8,380', Total Mileage 5.8
• Trailhead: McNamara Hut, elevation 10,360' Not a 10th Mountain suggested route. Due to Forest Service Primitive Wilderness designation, no cleared trail or trail markings are allowed in the No Name Creek drainage. The route between the McNamara and Benedict Huts is very difficult and is rarely skied in either direction. Total Mileage 8.
• Trailhead: New Upper Hunter Creek Trailhead, There is a recently-developed skiier drop-off/parking area (with very limited parking) available for visitors to the McNamara, Fritz and Fabi Benedict Huts that can make it easier to access these huts. Use this link for additional information. New Upper Hunter Creek Trailhead

Summer Trail Access
• Closed in Summer

Posted by Brett at 12:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Nestled at timberline, a few miles east of the majestic peaks of the Colorado Continental Divide, at elevation: 11,370'. The 10th Mountain Division Hut forms a perfect destination for a single hut trip or ski-through using other nearby huts. In summer, dozens of hiking and cycling routes start or end just outside the doorfrom or to Leadville. Completed during the summer of 1989, the hut was built in honor of the 10th Mountain Division of the U.S. Army, using funds donated by 10th Mountain Division Veterans Bill Boddington, Col. Pete Peterson, Maury Kuper, and Bill Bowerman.

Upstairs: 2 bedrooms, 1 with 6 beds, 1 with 4 beds, and a communal sleeping area with 1 double bed and 4 single beds. Capacity 16. Oven: Woodburning Sauna: No

Maps:
Official 10th Mountain, Winter: Galena Mountain [example]
Official 10th Mountain, Summer: Leadville
USGS Map: Leadville North Quadrangle
USFS Forest Visitor's Map: San Isabel National Forest

Winter Trail Access
• Trailhead: Tennessee Pass, elevation 10,424' Route: F.S. road 100, North Fork of Tennessee Creek Trail to the hut, Total Mileage 5.7
• Trailhead: Crane Park, elevation 10,137', Total Mileage 4.4
• Trailhead: Uncle Bud's Hut, elevation 11,380', Total Mileage 7.3

Summer Trail Access
• Trailhead: Crane Park, elevation 10,137' Route: F.S. road 100 to the hut (extreme 4WD road - periodically closed or impassible), Total Mileage 4.4
• Trailhead: Tennessee Pass, elevation 10,424' Route: Colorado Trail, F.S. road 100 to the hut, Total Mileage 5.7
• Trailhead: Uncle Bud's Hut, elevation 11,380' Route: Colorado Trail, F.S. road 100 to the hut, Total Mileage 11.3

Posted by Brett at 12:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Thompson Creek Road provides access for many hiking and biking trails including the following: South Thompson, Lake Ridge Lakes, Mid Thompson, South Branch of Mid Thompson and Dexter Park. This area is primarily used by bicyclists, horseback riders and hunters. It passes through aspen groves and crosses many small streams. In the lower region there is an extensive system of Cross country ski trails in the winter.

The road is accessible to two-wheel drive vehicles until reaching the stream crossing at Middle Thompson unless it is raining. Impassable when wet. Users will need a high-clearance four-wheel drive to cross the stream and for the road afterward. Continue driving 3.9 miles on road #305 until you reach a fork in the road. Take the right fork to access road #306 and Mid Thompson, the South Branch of Mid Thompson, Dexter Park and Lake Ridge Lake Trails. Take the left fork to stay on road #305 to access South Thompson.

Directions from Carbondale: From Carbondale follow road #108 west past the stoplight. Follow road #108 for 7.5 miles and turn left on to Mid Thompson Creek Road #305.

Seasonal Information:
Normally Accessible: May through September (NOTE: Snow may obstruct the trail during the Spring, Winter and Fall months.) .

Length, One-way: 12.1 Miles (20.17 Kilometers)
Usage: Moderate
Difficulty: Moderate two-wheel drive to stream crossing, four-wheel drive afterward -slippery when wet
Beginning Elevation: 7,808 Feet (2433.9 Meters) at branch of #305 from #108
Ending Elevation: 8,440 Feet (2630.9 Meters) road #305
Elevation Gain: 632 Feet (197.0 Meters) road #305
Elevation Gain: 232 Feet (72.3 Meters) road #306
Length, One-way: 6.3 Miles (10.5 Kilometers) road #306

Posted by Brett at 08:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This road climbs from the Taylor River Valley in the Crested Butte region, over Taylor Pass, to the Castle Creek Valley, near Ashcroft and Aspen. For mountain bikers this can be one leg of a weekend excursion to Crested Butte coming back on Pearl Pass. The road climbs steadily through Aspen groves after leaving the Taylor River Road. After following a stream for 3 miles, you will reach Taylor Lake. Taylor Pass is reached after a short climb above the lake. This road can be very rough at times, check at District Office before using.

Directions from Aspen: Drive west on Highway 82 from Aspen 1/2 mile. At the roundabout, turn onto Castle Creek Road. Drive about 11 miles, just past Elk Mountain Lodge and before the ghost town of Ashcroft, on your left will be Express Creek Road. Take Express Creek Road for approximately six miles. Pass the first road on your right and take the next one. This is Taylor Pass Road #761.

Seasonal Information:
Normal Summer Season: June through September (NOTE: Open but not maintained for off-road vehicle, mountain bike, horse and foot travel during the Summer months.) . Normal Winter Season: November through May (NOTE: Open but not maintained for recreational purposes.) .

Length: 4 Miles (6.67 Kilometers)
Difficulty: Most Difficult
Usage: Heavy
Recommended Season: Summer to Fall
Beginning Elevation: 10,000 Feet (3117.2 Meters)
Ending Elevation: 11,000 Feet (3428.9 Meters)
USGS Maps: Hayden Peak, New York Peak, Italian Creek
Road Number: 761
Title: Taylor Pass Road
Elevation Gain: 1,000 Feet (311.7 Meters)

Posted by Brett at 08:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

This trail offers a challenging day hike or backpack trip and access into Hunter Creek, Lenado and Van Horn Park. On warm days, be prepared for little shade for the first several miles. This is a popular trail with both mountain bikers and hikers. Due to the steep climb up the face of Red Mountain, mountain bikers normally start from the Four Corners area, near the Hunter Creek end of the trail, and finish at the Cemetery Lane/McLain Flats Rd. trailhead. The trail is narrow and not recommended for horse use. There are beautiful aspen groves and good views of Aspen and the surrounding mountains.

From the Cemetery Lane/McLain Flats Rd. trailhead, the trail starts climbing up Red Mountain. There are great views of the surrounding peaks. The trail continues to switchback along the side of the mountain through shrub oak. In about two miles, the trail enters the aspen groves. Stay on the main trail through the aspen, there are several faded spurs along the way. The trail follows along the ridge entering areas of spruce and coming out on an old road. Follow the road to a sign marking the Sunnyside Trail off to the right. The trail becomes a single track again and descends toward Hunter Creek. The Sunnyside Trail ends at the intersection with a 4 WD road (the left fork on the road goes to Van Horn Park), but you can pick up the single track Hunter Creek Trail on the other side, which descends into Hunter Valley.

At the trail junction at the bottom in the Hunter Valley, turn right and continue for about 1/8 mile to the Tenth Mountain Bridge. Cross the bridge and head right, following the single track through the meadow. The trail descends steeply through the trees and crosses Benedict Bridge. Take an immediate left just after the bridge. The trail foll