Indian Peaks Wilderness — Journal

Buchanan - Pawnee Loop

The trail runs keep getting longer! Beginning at Long Lake in the Brainard Lake Recreational Area, we began our 26 mile loop by ascending Buchanan Pass (11,837’), our first crossing of the Continental Divide for the day. Snow had mostly receded, but this loop has taken time to clear for quick passage. Cruising through wildflowers and past waterfalls makes the western section of the Buchanan Pass Trail one of the most enjoyable areas of the Front Range.

Douglas DeVotoJuly 28, 2017Trail Running, Indian Peaks Wilderness

King Lake and Devil's Thumb Lake Loop

One of my favorite loops in the Indian Peaks is connecting King Lake and Devil’s Thumb Lake via the High Lonesome Trail. We chose to run the loop in the clockwise direction, ascending through trees from the Hessie Trailhead and reaching a partially ice filled lake.

Douglas DeVotoJuly 1, 2017Trail Running, Indian Peaks Wilderness

Lone Eagle Peak

The high country is slowly beginning to melt away and open up the alpine trails. I spent a night by Crater Lake, with a view of Lone Eagle Peak. Getting there was a bit of challenge as many downed trees covered the standard trail, and snow still covered the last few miles. The Milky Way moving across the backdrop of snow-covered mountains made for a memorable night.