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BPX 2-Day: American Lakes from American Lakes TH

Trip

BPX Trip – BPX 2-Day: American Lakes from American Lakes TH

This two-day, one-night backpacking trip to the stunning American Lakes in State Forest State Park offers a perfect blend of alpine beauty and wildlife encounters. Nestled beneath the majestic Nokhu Crags and flanked by rugged peaks, the lakes provide a breathtaking campsite with the chance to spot moose grazing in the surrounding meadows. A short hike beyond to Thunder Pass rewards trekkers with sweeping views into Rocky Mountain National Park, adding a dramatic finish to this unforgettable high-country escape. This trip is for BPX members. Please consider joining this fun group if you're not a member already!

Contacts

Wayne Howell
Wayne Howell
Primary Leader
  • Tue, Jul 15, 2025 — Wed, Jul 16, 2025
  • Backpacking Section
  • Backpacking
  • Adults
  • Moderate
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 8.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,500 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 11,218 ft
  • Pace: 1.5 - 2.0 MPH

Please email the trip leader at waynehow59@gmail.com to join this trip.

This two-day, one-night backpacking adventure to the dazzling American Lakes in State Forest State Park is a journey into the heart of alpine splendor, where towering peaks and untamed wilderness set the stage for an unforgettable escape. Cradled beneath the jagged spires of the Nokhu Crags, the lakes shimmer like sapphire jewels, reflecting the majesty of the surrounding high country and offering prime opportunities to spot moose grazing in the lush meadows. For those seeking more, optional day hikes add an extra layer of wonder—ascend to the hidden sanctuary of Snow Lake, perched like a secret oasis in the heights, trek to Thunder Pass for a jaw-dropping glimpse into Rocky Mountain National Park, or wander into the dramatic cirque carved by the Nokhu Crags, where sheer rock faces rise like sentinels over the rugged landscape. As night falls, the crisp mountain air hums with the whispers of the wild, and beneath a canopy of endless stars, the backcountry magic unfolds—leaving trekkers breathless, inspired, and longing to return.

Please see the R/P for more details about this trip.

BPX Offers multiday, backpacking and camping adventures throughout Colorado and neighboring States. Our trips may include other mountain activities such as winter camping, high peaks, fishing, etc. Members from every part of the state enjoy connecting with others, sharing knowledge, skills, and experiences, and developing friendships. (Backpacking Section — The Colorado Mountain Club)

This will be communicated to participants closer to the trip dates.

Route/Place

BPX 2-Day: American Lakes from American Lakes TH

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

You will need to bring the 10 essentials for backpacking, 2 days worth of food, and plenty of water to start with. More information will be provided in the Trip Plan.

$20 annual BPX Membership Dues are required to participate. Please contact the office at 303-279-3080 ext. 3 or office@cmc.org or use this weblink (Backpacking (BPX) Section Membership — The Colorado Mountain Club) to join the pack!

Trip Reports