Snow Report and Detour ideas

imported
#1

Just recevied a phone call from Andrew Snow, who started the CT on June 23rd. He and a couple of other hikers “managed” the west side of Georgia Pass, and got to Breck. But, they are going to hitch to Leadville, and pass on Segments 7, 8 and 9. Even though it’s nearly 100 degrees in Denver today, it sounds like it may be another week or two before some of the trail is passable. Pretty sure that Segments 8 & 9 will be the last to melt.

I saw a post on the CTF Facebook page suggesting the road up Boreas Pass from Como, CO as an alternative route to Breck, Como is just a handful of miles south of Kenosha Pass on Hwy 285, and should be an easy hitch. It’s a dirt road, but a decent walk. Then, yu will need to figure out how to get to Leadville from Breck.

I realize that some folks have already soldiered through the snow, but it sounds like a big challenge right now.

TrailGuy

#2

Some hikers have already accomplished Segments 7, 8 & 9 using snowshoes. Slow going and energy intensive, no doubt, but surely a memorable adventure. Wondering if hikers might buy snowshoes in Breckenridge (anyone know?) or secure them via resupply box or pal; hike 7, 8 & 9 with snowshoes aboard; then consider whether to ditch them or not. In addition to snowshoes, though, you’d probably need a good map or GPS so you could stay close to the CT, in many places invisible under the snow. This strategy is not consistent with many thru-hiker plans, but might be a worthwhile reaction to this snowpack curve-ball by Mother Nature.

On Track

#3

Bud and I continued and did section 7 after going through 6 with Andrew. It was rough, started at 6 to try get across firmer snow, postholed for the couple miles across the east slope, very tough slog. Maps or gps is essential, trail is most entirely covered. After crossing to the west side it’s not so bad.

Considering the outlook on 8 and 9 I’ve decided to get off the trail. Bud is hardcore and is going to continue, snow be damned :slight_smile:

Stefan

#4

Ten Mile Range and Cooper Mountain are loaded with snow. Was just there this weekend. You need a GPS and snowshoes to get over if not more. Heavy rain in Breck on Friday and the locals said there was a couple of inches of snow dumped on top of the ten mile range during that time.

I did segs 10,11,12,13,14 and most of it had no snow. Around Elbert still has a lot of snow. You will not be able to climb Elbert for a few weeks just skip it and continue on the trail. There is no snow around Shavano. If you want to climb a 14er climb that one.

All the thru hikers I met were skipping segs 8 and 9. If you can get a ride to Camp Hal you will avoid most of the worst snow.

Prince