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Mt. Quandary

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Mar 29, 2001

Introduction

We hiked the Mount Quandary trail in February to see if we could do it. A winter 14'er can be particularly dangerous, but our books indicated that this 14'er was possible in the winter because the trail climbs along a ridge and the danger of avalanche is low. We weren't the only ones attempting it either. Several people were ahead of us, and more followed after us. After everyone gets their pace going, the people kind of naturally spread out on the trail too, so don't worry about it being too crowded. Not that many people are foolish enough to try this after all.

It is important that you know that even if you don't climb to the peaks on these hikes, they are still some of the most remote and beautiful views you are ever to see in your life time. I highly encourage you to just hike as far as you can up these trails if you aren't ready to climb a 14'er just yet. Stay true to yourself and your own abilities. Do not let the peak tempt you if your body isn't ready.

Trail Rating

Boots: 4 boots, no question about it
Kids: Nope, I don't recommend it at this time of the year
Dogs: Well, very hardy and large dogs perhaps, but watch their exertion levels
Facilities: Nope, none to be seen

What to Bring

Everything and more. Yikes! We attempted this hike with light packs, plenty of layers of clothing and gloves with liners. We rented some snowshoes that turned out to be worthless. We brought plenty of water and food for the day and an extra layer of clothing just in case. We wore face covering, heavy boots (not heavy enough!), head coverings, and sunblock.

How to Get There

From Colorado Springs, get on Highway 24 heading west, of course, and drive to Route 9. Turn right onto Route 9. This is the same route to Breckenridge and in fact, Breckenridge is just moments after the Quandary turn-off. Turn off Highway 9 onto Blue Lakes road (Forest Road #850).

If you want to hike this trail in the summer, travel on Blue Lakes road one mile to the white arrow on the left side of the road. If you are attempting this trail in the winter, a parking area is just on the right after you turn on Blue Lakes road. Be sure to get your vehicle as far off the road as possible because it can get slippery.

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