A Tough Trek Yields the Highest American Lake, Revealing Breathtaking Alpine Landscapes
Article: Exploring the Trails and Activities of White River National Forest in Colorado
Nestled in the heart of Colorado lies the White River National Forest, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and breathtaking landscapes. While the high-altitude lake, Pacific Tarn, is located in a different state, the forest offers a plethora of activities that cater to various interests.
The forest is home to numerous recreational opportunities, such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, and winter sports. Some of the most popular trails include the Hanging Lake, Four Pass Loop, and Maroon Bells Scenic Trail for hiking, and extensive trail networks for mountain biking. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in alpine streams and lakes, while winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the forest's winter resorts. Camping and backpacking are also popular activities, with backcountry zones providing a unique wilderness experience.
For those seeking a challenge, the Pacific Peak, Crystal, Father Dyer Loop is a strenuous 11.6-mile loop that starts from the Spruce Creek Trailhead. Completing this loop takes around eight hours and offers stunning views throughout the journey. Another challenging hike is the Atlantic Peak and Pacific Peak Trail, starting on the west side of the peaks from the Mayflower Gulch Trailhead.
One of the most intriguing spots in the forest is Pacific Tarn, a glacial lake located on the eastern crest of Pacific Peak in Colorado's Tenmile Range. While it is the highest named lake in the U.S., with a maximum elevation of 13,420 feet, access to its nearest trailhead is approximately a 17-minute drive from Breckenridge, and just under two hours from Denver. The trail to Pacific Tarn is best suited to experienced climbers, and the Pacific Peak, while not reaching 14,000 feet, still requires physical strength and a head for heights.
Pacific Tarn is also home to various wildlife, including moose, black bears, mountain lions, bald eagles, ospreys, and a species of salmonid fish. The nearby town of Breckenridge serves as a popular base for exploring the area, offering a historic main street, restaurants, boutiques, gold mines, and the famous resident troll, Isak Heartstone.
Visitors to McCullough Gulch or Quandary Peak must reserve parking or take a shuttle from June 14 to September 14. Limited free parking is available at Spruce Creek Trailhead, the starting point for the trail to Pacific Tarn. The shuttle from Breckenridge to Quandary Peak parking lot and up to McCullough Gulch requires reservations at hikequandary.com. Parking costs from $10 up to $55 depending on time slots and dates, but for the mentioned trails, booking a full day's parking is recommended.
One of the most popular trails in the area is the Pacific Peak and Pacific Tarn via McCullough Gulch Trail, a 12.3-mile loop that takes approximately seven hours to complete. This trail offers beautiful views through pine and aspen forests, and is a favourite among experienced climbers.
In conclusion, the White River National Forest in Colorado offers a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an experienced climber seeking a challenge or a nature lover looking for a peaceful hike, the forest has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Colorado.
The White River National Forest, with its diverse activities, seamlessly blends home-and-garden (nature) with travel (exploration), making it an excellent destination for an outdoor-living lifestyle. Whether it's hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, winter sports, or even climbing, this forest caters to a variety of interests, offering a unique blend of adventure and breathtaking landscapes.
