Colorado Backpacking in October 7-12 2019

[Nohmichel]

Hello!

Visiting Denver the first week of October for the first time. Friends and I are looking for backpacking trails for October 7-11. Any suggestions? Weather like conditions? Thanks!

 

[Jackson]

Anywhere in the Rockies that time of year, plan on it being 20s or below at night, and of course your days are going to be shorter. And there's always a chance you'll get snowed on that late in the season. That said, pretty much all trails should still be doable unless there's been a lot of early snowfall (which is possible. Always a gamble). The bonus of going in October is that you'll come across far fewer people, and that's a big plus if you've wanted to do any of the popular Colorado trails.

 

[RyanP]

Yeah, I wouldn't plan on doing any of the classic high alpine routes at that time of year. You may be able to do them, but it totally depends on the conditions/weather. I would definitely plan on something like the lost Creek wilderness (at least as a plan B) if you want a better chance of trails being in good condition.

 

[Shrubs]

Hey Nohmichel,

Colorado is your oyster, and that time of year there will afford you a lot more solitude. There are tons of options depending on what you are trying to accomplish. Where are you coming from, and how far are you willing to drive and hike? How experienced are you with backpacking in the mountains? That will help narrow it down.

I would second having Lost Creek Wilderness on your list, as well. It's close to Denver, has some neat features, and is at a lower elevation than most other wilderness areas in CO. Don't underestimate the effects altitude, even for the super fit. The Indian Peaks come to mind, as do some of the lower valleys in Rocky Mtn Natl Park, the Rawahs, Sand Dunes Natl Park, and the list goes on. Again, echoing the other two responses, plan for the cold, expect snow above 10k feet.

Also, it's worth mentioning that you should wear some bright colored clothes and leave the moose spirit hood at home, lol! You will likely be sharing the backcountry with some moose hunters.

-Shrubs

 

[Nohmichel]

Anywhere in the Rockies that time of year, plan on it being 20s or below at night, and of course your days are going to be shorter. And there's always a chance you'll get snowed on that late in the season. That said, pretty much all trails should still be doable unless there's been a lot of early snowfall (which is possible. Always a gamble). The bonus of going in October is that you'll come across far fewer people, and that's a big plus if you've wanted to do any of the popular Colorado trails.

Thank you very much for the helpful information! Any day-hikes you recommend near Denver?

 

[Nohmichel]

Yeah, I wouldn't plan on doing any of the classic high alpine routes at that time of year. You may be able to do them, but it totally depends on the conditions/weather. I would definitely plan on something like the lost Creek wilderness (at least as a plan B) if you want a better chance of trails being in good condition.

Thanks so much!

 

[Wanderlust073]

Any day-hikes you recommend near Denver?

Google 'jefferson county open spaces'. Those are all great.

 

[RyanP]

Thank you very much for the helpful information! Any day-hikes you recommend near Denver?

What are you looking for in a day hike? How many miles? How much elevation gain? What kind of hike? How far are you willing to drive? High peak is alpine lake vs...? Are you prepared for chilly/windy weather or would you rather stay lower where it's warmer? If you give us a few details, we can offer recommendations

 

[Venchka]

This idea is totally weather dependent.
Early October might be the only time of the year when you can get a walk-in permit for Rocky Mountain National Park. You won’t have to worry about hunters.
I suggest calling the backcountry office and discuss the viability of a week in the Park with the Rangers. I have always had a pleasant experience with them.
Good luck! Have fun!
Wayne