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Backcountry Snowshoe and Ski Paradise

Dillon, Colorado

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

7 miles

Elevation Gain

1700 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Amy Kesic

Get amazing views of Mount Sniktau and Pettingell Peak. This hike is about 7 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of about 1700 feet. The last third of the climb to the lake will really test your fitness. Duration: Half Day.

A popular wildflower hike in summer, Herman Gulch is arguably even prettier covered in snow. The north-south trail offers views of the impressive Mount Sniktau to the south and Pettingell Peak to the north--with much to see along the way. Officially, the trail weaves in and out of the forest and ends at the alpine Herman Lake.

In winter, however, the trail is soon obscured and you will likely make your way along the frozen and snow-covered creek bed, which offers unimpeded, stunning views at all times, making this a personal favorite of mine.

The trail is just under 3.5 miles to the lake. It starts at 10,280 feet and ends at 12,000 feet for an altitude gain of over 1700 feet. It starts out with a challenging climb and levels out a little in the second mile. The final 1/3 of the climb is quite steep, and will really test your fitness.

This area, like anyplace in the backcountry, is at risk for avalanches; I had seen evidence of one which crossed the trail on my hike.

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Features

Photography
Skiing
Snowshoeing
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Forest
Scenic

Backcountry Snowshoe and Ski Paradise Reviews

I did this hike on July-4 2016. i went to this hike without any expectations but to my surprise , this is the best hike i did in Colorado so far. Each and every turn is scenic with waterfalls, streams , and Beautiful Wild flowers .it reminded me few of Hikes that i did in Himalayas India . I still surprise why i couldn't find this trail in Theoutbound.com when i searched for hikes around Idaho springs . i did this hike on first week of July and i'm going to do this hike again .

Leave No Trace

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