Hiking – Lake Xanadu

Carpool Place & Time: Meet at the Plainview Rd Parking Area at 6:15AM, for a 6:30AM departure (39°52'32.9"N 105°16'09.4"W - Google Maps)

We'll carpool to the Fourth of July Trailhead Parking Lot (Fourth of July Trailhead - Google Maps)

An additional carpool location further north is possible.

Starting from the 4th of July Trailhead, the hike to the wreckage of a 1971 plane crash near Lake Xanadu in the Indian Peaks Wilderness offers a somber yet fascinating journey. The route traverses dense forests and rugged terrain, combining both on-trail and off-trail route-finding through the Lake Xanadu watershed, nestled below Mount Jasper. As we progress along the route marked by the passage of time and nature's reclamation, we reach the poignant remains of the crash site near the lake. Here, the scattered remnants of the aircraft amidst the serene backdrop of the lake serve as a stark reminder of the tragedy, evoking a deep sense of reflection and respect for those who lost their lives. We'll stop at a comfortable spot for lunch/snack and then make out way back to the trailhead by the same route. Our pace will be comfortable for all participants. Overall ~6 miles and ~1900 ft elevation gain. (Lake Xanadu - CalTopo)

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