7 Bucket List Backpacking Trips in Colorado
Heading out on a multi-day trip might seem a bit daunting when you aren’t sure where to go (there’s so much to choose from!). But, with one or two of these in your pocket, you’re ready to enjoy your next Colorado backpacking adventure.
1. Pawnee and Buchanan Pass Loop. Front Range
The loop through Pawnee Pass (12,542 feet) and Buchanan Pass (11,837 feet) is dramatic, strenuous, and unforgettable. The classic loop covers 27 miles, but there are several great extension options that are well worth making this a three-day adventure. The main extension options are Lake Isabelle (0.2 mile and 40 feet of gain), Pawnee Peak (1 mile and 400 feet of gain) and Crater Lake (2.8 miles and 350 feet of gain). All should be considered given ample time and energy.
- A Front Range Classic
- High passes and high mountain lakes
- A 27 mile loop
2. Mill Lake Backpack Trip. Gunnison Area
Mill Lake is what basic Colorado backpacking is all about. This was the first backpack trip my son did as a youngster. Being short and close to the trailhead, it meets that sweet spot of having a remote wilderness feel, while not being too far away from the car. It is a steep trail at high elevation, so I wouldn’t exactly call it a cake walk, especially when you’re carrying extra weight. The nearby lakes, Boulder and Lamphere, also offer wonderful backpacking options if you want to hike a little further.
- A short hike
- Classic Colorado mountain lake
- Nearby summit hike
- Fishing
3. Chicago Basin 14er Grand Slam. Silverton Area
This is one heck of an other-worldly trip. If you don’t want to take the train and want an epic multi-day backpacking experience, start from Purgatory. Starting from Purgatory means you don’t need to worry about a train ticket, plus you get some extra mileage out of the deal. For this route, consider at least two nights; hike in and camp the first day, summit all four 14ers on the next day, and hike out the following day. Add in an extra day if you want to enjoy the basin a bit more!
- A long, challenging, bucket list trip
- Incredible scenery, mountains, and lakes
- Opportunities to climb three major 14ers
- Narrow Gauge Railroad (possible) access
4. Copper Lake Backpack Trip. Crested Butte Area
This is a well marked intermediate out-and-back multi-day trip in the heart of the Elk Mountain. You pass by beautiful Judd Falls and follow Copper Creek all the way to Copper Lake. The elevation gain is mild except for one section toward the end with some switchbacks. Copper Creek Trail #983 is also a great starting spot for backpacking. You can continue toward Triangle Pass, Copper Pass, or East Maroon Pass which all access amazing basins. In the summer, this is a great trail for wildflower viewing.
- A mid-length hike
- Classic Colorado mountain lake
- Nearby alpine day hike loop
- Fishing
5. Timberline Lake Backpack Trip. Leadville Area
This is a fantastic entry-level, or quick-n-easy backpacking trip in the Holy Cross Wilderness. Due to its easy access and easy difficulty level, you are likely to encounter other hikers, fisherpeople, and backpackers. A wilderness permit is required, which you will fill out and obtain along the trail at the wilderness boundary.
- A short hike
- Classic Colorado mountain lake
- Fishing
6. Fancy Pass/Missouri Lakes Backpack Loop. Vail Area
This is a fairly entry-level backpack loop, in that it is short, and does not require expert navigational skills. Nevertheless, this trip will bring you quickly into remote, rugged wilderness, with extended time above treeline. Spectacular views, lakes, and wildflowers make this one a classic for anybody looking for a top-notch backpack trip in Colorado.
- A multi-day loop
- Classic Colorado mountain lakes
- Fishing
- Scenic mountain passes
7. Four Pass Loop. Aspen Area
A Colorado classic, Four Pass Loop travels around the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area over 4 mountain passes that exceed 12,000′. The loop extends for a total of 27 miles and includes more than 8,000 feet of elevation gain. The route is a grand tour through meadows, valleys, alpine lakes, streams, and wildflowers. Most backpackers choose to complete the circuit in three or four days, and ambitious trail runners tackle the loop in a single day. This trip is very popular and camping permits are required
- A world famous loop through the Elk Mountains
- High passes and high mountain lakes
- Legendary wildflowers
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