Segment 11, Colorado Trail, CO (2)
CO (Lake County)
Day 3
Segment 10 random spot to Segment 11 Interlaken Trailhead
Into Segment 11. A few years ago, I climbed Mount Elbert and hit the trail via the Mount Elbert Cutoff Trail. The trailhead was nearby. It was very dark when I started then. There were a few switchbacks but then the trail leveled out before the intersection with the North Mount Elbert Trail. A couple of dayhikers continued up Elbert. (Mount Elbert is the second highest in the lower 48 at 14,440 feet, Mount Massive is a close third. It can be a difficult hike if not prepared. I would suggest starting very early. Not only to lessen the threat of afternoon thunderstorms but also to avoid too many hikers standing on the summit.)
There were a number of streams to cross and the trail was actually quite nice. Lots of Aspens but unfortunately they were still mostly green. A side trail leads to Twin Lakes Village, a small town with a general store for resupply or a mail drop. There is also a small Historic District with several historic buildings. Stop in the visitor center; you might be able to charge your phone. The town can also be accessed when the trail crosses under CO82. I didn't need to go there since I was finishing on the other side of Twin Lakes.
The hike around Twin Lakes isn't too exciting but it also isn't difficult. It is about 6 miles of flat, sandy and totally exposed to the sun, hiking. Great views of the mountains though. I stopped for a short break near Mount Elbert Power Plant at a very small Aspen grove. This is the last shade for about 3.5 miles until past the dam. I made good time and finally made it back to the car.
Segment 11, Colorado Trail, CO (2)
CO (Lake County)
Day 3
Segment 10 random spot to Segment 11 Interlaken Trailhead
Into Segment 11. A few years ago, I climbed Mount Elbert and hit the trail via the Mount Elbert Cutoff Trail. The trailhead was nearby. It was very dark when I started then. There were a few switchbacks but then the trail leveled out before the intersection with the North Mount Elbert Trail. A couple of dayhikers continued up Elbert. (Mount Elbert is the second highest in the lower 48 at 14,440 feet, Mount Massive is a close third. It can be a difficult hike if not prepared. I would suggest starting very early. Not only to lessen the threat of afternoon thunderstorms but also to avoid too many hikers standing on the summit.)
There were a number of streams to cross and the trail was actually quite nice. Lots of Aspens but unfortunately they were still mostly green. A side trail leads to Twin Lakes Village, a small town with a general store for resupply or a mail drop. There is also a small Historic District with several historic buildings. Stop in the visitor center; you might be able to charge your phone. The town can also be accessed when the trail crosses under CO82. I didn't need to go there since I was finishing on the other side of Twin Lakes.
The hike around Twin Lakes isn't too exciting but it also isn't difficult. It is about 6 miles of flat, sandy and totally exposed to the sun, hiking. Great views of the mountains though. I stopped for a short break near Mount Elbert Power Plant at a very small Aspen grove. This is the last shade for about 3.5 miles until past the dam. I made good time and finally made it back to the car.