Starting Locations

imported
#1

I’m sure you have all seen the Waterton Canyon Closure map, but if not, here is the link:
http://coloradotrail.org/Seg1MapWatertonClosureHiRes.pdf

I post this for two reasons:

  1. If you attempt to access the CT by breaching either of the “dumb bell” closure icons on the map, you will not like the outcome - fines, reprimands, etc. This is no joke >>> heavy patrols.

  2. There are several access points to the Stevens Gulch trail that will lead you right to Lenny’s Rest. If you are going to access the CT from the Roxborough Park residential area, just make sure you stay to the left at the intersection. It is clearly marked with closure signs.

I bring this up because the drive around the hills to Indian Creek is not super convenient, and it is just a long, rough drive to Platte Township, and with gas at $3.XX per gallon…well, you get it.

FYI only. Having hiked sections 1 and 2 more than I would like to admit, I can assure you that your CT experience is not going to be dramatically altered by the closure.

TrailGuy

#2

I agree with TrailGuy, but I’ll go further.

IMO, there is NOTHING whatsoever worth the effort in Segment 1, save the beautiful open (but dry) campsite to the left of the trail atop the ridge just before you start the descent to the South Platte River. Great views.

This site is not to be confused with the also dry site under the trees to the right of the trail just a few hundred yards before you reach the top of the ridge (and the GOOD site).

If you go past this ridgetop site, you will have to go all the way down that steep hill to find campsites along the river.

You miss nothing by totally skipping Waterton Canyon and it’s hot roadwalk. At least you get to walk along the waterway most of the way to the dam.

Wandering Bob

#3

Indeed, WBob, you are spot on. I have camped at that campsite, and it was terrific. Hard to beat on a clear, star filled night. It will be an interesting decision for thruhikers that start at Lenny’s this year. I can’t imagine stopping at Bear Creek, unless you get a really late afternoon start. That means the alternative is basically trudging up that slope out of Bear Creek to the dry campsite (but, you would have water from Bear Creek), or trying to figure something out around the Platte. I actually like Section 1 better than Section 2, but could make a very strong argument for starting at 2 or even 3.

Oh well. Hike on,

TGuy

TrailGuy

#4

Thanks for the advice and suggestions. You’ve got me sold on the lenny rest access.

TD - I tried to email you through here the other day… did it get thru? If not, I’d like to take you up on your shuttle offer and ask you some other questions about the CT.

BKUENEMAN at CONESTOGAC dot ON dot CA

thanks, Brad

CanadianDude

#5

Thanks for the advice and suggestions. You’ve got me sold on the lenny rest access.

TrailGuy - I tried to email you through here the other day… did it get thru? If not, I’d like to take you up on your shuttle offer and ask you some other questions about the CT.

BKUENEMAN at CONESTOGAC dot ON dot CA

thanks, Brad

CanadianDude