| About San Isabel National Forest |
|
|
| Black Cloud Trail |
Content provided by |
|
|
|
Ending Elevation:
14,433 Feet
Length, Round Trip:
10 Miles
Elevation Gain:
4,733 Feet
Elevation:
9,700 Feet
Difficulty:
Moderate to More Difficult
Beginning Elevation:
9,700 Feet
USGS Maps:
Mt. Massive, Mt. Elbert
Reservation:
No
Season:
May - September
From Leadville, From Leadville travel south on US Hwy. 24 (approx. 15 miles) to the junction of CO Hwy. 82. Travel west towards Independence Pass for about 10 miles. Just west of the Twin Peaks Campground watch for a small Black Cloud sign. The trail climbs north following the Black Cloud Creek.
Location Information
This trail is an alternative route to the more heavily used North and South Mount Elbert Trails for climbing Colorado's highest peak. This is a moderate to strenuous day hike with an elevation gain of 4,713 feet. Be aware of changing weather conditions on mountain peaks and prepare for them. This trail passes through spruce-fir and aspen stands, then through some rock beds to ruins of mining operations and cabins. Continuing your hike will bring you to timberline and eventually Mount Elbert (14,433). For those who don't wish to climb the peak, there are many excellent views from various points along the trail.
|
|
More Resources at Wildernet |
|
|
