Western Wanderlust Chronicles

A Weekend Escape on the Colorado Trail

A couple of weeks ago, Greg and Bill tackled Segment 4 of the Colorado Trail (CT). This time, I was eager to join Greg for Segment 5, a 14.6-mile stretch with a gain of 1,858 feet and a loss of 2,055 feet. While it’s possible to hike this segment in a day, we decided to turn it into a weekend adventure, providing a perfect opportunity to unwind, test new gear, and immerse ourselves in the beauty of the mountains.

Starting Point: Long Gulch Trailhead

Our journey began at the Long Gulch trailhead. The drive there was a visual treat, taking us through the scenic Lost Creek Wilderness. As we set off, the trail meandered gently westward through a mix of pine and fir forests. The landscape gradually opened up into grassy clearings adorned with stands of aspen and Bristlecone pine, offering glimpses of the expansive wilderness.

The Hike Through Lost Creek Wilderness

The first part of the trail led us through dense forests and a marshy area with stunning mountain views in the distance. As we progressed, we encountered long, exposed sections where the sun beamed down without any shade. The trail felt like a peaceful journey through a wilderness painting, with vibrant wildflowers and the soothing sounds of nature accompanying us. The wildflowers, some of which were new to me, added a splash of color to the landscape.

Camping at Rock Creek

Upon reaching Rock Creek, we found an idyllic campsite. The afternoon was spent relaxing by the creek, enjoying the gentle flow of water and watching horses graze nearby. As evening settled in, we completed our camp chores and enjoyed a quiet dinner, marveling at the changing colors of the sunset on the mountain peaks.

A New Day Dawns

We awoke to a stunning morning with the sun rising over the mountains. The weather was so pleasant that I never needed to wear my puffy jacket. After a hearty breakfast, we packed up camp and continued our journey. The second half of the trail was characterized by miles of high fields and expansive views. The hike offered a mix of ascending paths and long traverses, providing a continuous display of natural beauty.

Reaching Kenosha Pass

As we followed the trail along Johnson Gulch, we were treated to breathtaking views of South Park and the surrounding area. The closer we got to Kenosha Pass, the more we were enveloped by a forest of aspen trees. The vibrant greenery was a perfect setting for a relaxing pause. At the Kenosha East Campground, we stopped to explore the Kenosha Pass Railroad Station Documentary, adding a historical touch to our hike.

The Journey’s End and a Bit of Luck

After a brief break and a quick check-in with Bill, Greg and I made our way toward US 285, prepared for a round of leapfrog with passing cars. To our pleasant surprise, the road was clear, and we had a quiet, uninterrupted walk. As we waited for Bill to pick us up, we enjoyed a snack under the gradually graying sky. The rain arrived just as Bill did, wrapping up our trip with perfect timing.

A Perfect Getaway

This short backpacking trip was exactly what I needed—a refreshing escape into nature, filled with serene moments and beautiful scenery. For Greg, it was another segment of the Colorado Trail accomplished, and I was grateful to share the experience. As we packed up and headed home, we carried with us memories of a wonderful adventure and the joy of exploring Colorado’s stunning landscapes.