By high summer, most climbs in Rocky Mountain National Park start with long pre-dawn approaches to ensure a return to the trailhead by 12 p.m. and thus avoid afternoon storms. But Wild Basin offers a different look for backpackers. Camp in the designated site at Thunder Lake and get right to the climbing the next morning on this 16.4-mile lollipop loop in the park’s southern section.
From the trailhead, pass wildflower-filled meadows on the way to Thunder Lake. Scramble up scree and talus past lakes and waterfalls to the Boulder-Grand Pass, a smooth point in an otherwise rough ridge. The Continental Divide affords big-time views of Chiefshead and Mt. Meeker to the northeast. Ascend to the summit of Mt. Alice and take in the diving board view over Wild Basin, with 14,259-foot Longs Peak looming over the ridge to the northeast.
Descend carefully along the hourglass ridge. Minimize your exposure by hugging the northern side, away from the precipitous southern edge. Follow the ridge back down toward the trio of sapphire lakes pooling below the divide, and pick up the trail again at Lion Lake 1. Hike east and south to close the lollipop and end at Wild Basin.
INFO For information on permits, current trail and camp conditions, and wilderness guidelines, go to nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/backcountry.htm
PERMIT A wilderness permit is required for all overnight camping in the backcountry. Reservations accepted ($20 administrative fee for permits during peak season). nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/backcntry_guide.htm
CONTACT Rocky Mountain National Park, (970) 586-1206; nps.gov/romo
To Trailhead
From Estes Park, head south on CO 7 E/N. St Vrain Ave. In roughly 13 miles, turn right onto CR 84 W/Wild Basin Rd. Go 2.5 miles to the trailhead.
