Alpine Backpacking Adventures: Conquering the Peaks

The Allure of Colorado's High Altitude Trails

In mid-June, Colorado's high mountains are often still blanketed with snow, creating a stunning yet challenging landscape for backpackers. For instance, the Arkansas River near Canon City can swell to near-flood levels due to snowmelt alone, despite weeks without rain. This phenomenon was observed when the river reached its highest levels in years, indicating the significant impact of snowmelt in the region.

Despite these conditions, the desire to explore the high peaks remains strong. On a personal adventure, my friend Mike and I set our sights on a two-night trip to Bushnell Lakes, with the ambitious goal of summiting Bushnell Peak, which stands at 13,105 feet. Our preparations were informed by a caller from Texas, who was concerned about the snow conditions in the Sangre De Cristo mountains. Although forest service rangers had warned of extensive snow coverage, we suspected that the conditions might be more favorable than reported.

Preparing for the High Mountain Environment

The journey began in the heat, with a lightweight approach to packing—carrying only 13 pounds. Opting for a shorter hike, we redirected our path to the Stout Lakes near the Twin Sisters Peaks. The trail register revealed that few had ventured this far into the season, with one hiker noting the loss of the trail in the snow at 10,800 feet just days before.

As we ascended, the trail transformed into a snow-covered path, with patches of snow appearing as early as 9,600 feet. The melting snow created streams along the trail, and at times, we found ourselves crossing precarious snow bridges. The trail's disappearance under several feet of snow made navigation challenging, but following the stream up the valley provided a reliable guide.

Our perseverance was rewarded with a mix of dry stretches and snow-clad landscapes, showcasing the irregularity of the melting process. Photos captured the stark contrast between dry grass and towering walls of snow, as well as the struggle to climb snow-cliffs.

The Highs and Lows of Alpine Backpacking

Reaching the first lake was a milestone, with half of its surface still frozen. We retreated to a partially iced pond to set up camp, where curious marmots investigated our presence. The following day's hike took us past frozen lakes and into a meadow of wildflowers at 12,000 feet, culminating in a successful ascent to a 13,012-foot peak—the highest Mike had ever climbed.

However, the adventure was not without its challenges. The intense alpine sun, reflecting off the snow and ice, led to sun-sickness, a condition marked by a combination of sunburn and chills. This experience underscored the importance of proper sun protection and awareness of the sun's amplified effects at high altitudes.

Essential Tips for High Mountain Backpacking

1. Consult the Forest Service: Obtain current trail conditions to ensure you have the necessary gear and attire.
2. Navigation Skills: Carry a reliable map and know how to use it, crucial when trails are obscured by snow.
3. Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves to guard against the reflective sun.
4. GPS Tracking: Mark your vehicle's location with a GPS device to find your way back if the trail is lost.
5. Trailhead Register: Check for updates from previous hikers about trail conditions or obstacles.
6. Timely Ascents: Aim for early morning climbs to avoid common afternoon thunderstorms in the mountains.

Backpacking in the high mountains early in the season offers the privilege of solitude and the beauty of untouched nature. However, it's vital to be prepared for a diverse range of hiking conditions. For more information on backpacking and mountain safety, visit the U.S. Forest Service and Recreation.gov.

Interesting statistics and facts about high mountain backpacking are not commonly discussed. For instance, according to a study published in the Wilderness & Environmental Medicine journal, the incidence of acute mountain sickness (AMS) can be as high as 50% among trekkers and climbers in Colorado's high-altitude regions. This highlights the importance of acclimatization and awareness of altitude-related illnesses when planning a high mountain backpacking trip. Additionally, the National Park Service reports that search and rescue operations are often required for hikers who underestimate the challenges of high-altitude hiking, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation and knowledge of the terrain.