 |
 |
 |
|
HAPPY TRAILS: Mitchell Creek Loop |
|
Friday, February 03, 2012 13:03 |
|
HAPPY TRAILS: Mitchell Creek Snowshoe Loop
2-3 boots
2.5 to 7 miles
200 to 500 feet of elevation gain
Leadville isn’t one of the more well-known Colorado winter destinations — nearby Ski Cooper is among the state’s smallest ski areas — but what this high-elevation area lacks in glitz it makes up for in stunning scenery and snow.
This snowshoe hike meanders on the top of Tennessee Pass north of Leadville, on mostly gentle terrain through lodgepole pine forests with few climbs or descents, so it’s a great trip for beginner snowshoers, with fantastic views of the northern Sawatch Mountains in all their winter glory. Hikers now should find a winter wonderland, thanks to recent storms.
To get there
Take U.S. Highway 24 west to where it joins with U.S. Highway 285. Head north on 24 at Buena Vista and pass through historic Leadville. The trailhead is on the west side of the highway across from Ski Cooper. It’s about a 3-hour drive each way from Colorado Springs, so leave early. Hotel rooms at reasonable rates (compared with nearby ski resort towns) can be found in Leadville.
The hike
Follow the Colorado Trail gradually downhill for three-quarters of a mile on an old railroad line. Pass the junction of the Powderhound Trail running uphill to the left. Those looking for a shorter, 2.5-mile loop should take this and return to the trailhead. Otherwise, follow the Colorado Trail as it winds north and west, and stay on the Mitchell Creek Trail to the left where the Colorado Trail branches off. Ignore a spur to the right and the trail will head south, climbing gradually to a road. Follow along the road for a short distance and turn left to get back on the Colorado Trail. Follow the trail downhill back to the trailhead.
Details
The area around Tennessee Pass, which tops out at 10,424 feet, usually holds plenty of snow. For the latest conditions, check the Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District of the White River National Forest, 1-970-328-6388, or see how much snow has fallen at nearby Ski Cooper at www.skicooper.com.
Rating system
A scale of one to four boots. One is easiest, with little elevation gain, and it is at a reasonable altitude. Four is most difficult, with severe elevation gain, difficult terrain or extreme length or altitude.
It's all Happy Trails all the time at our Trail Finder at OutThereColorado.com!
|
