Willow Lake & Mount Adams

CMC Backpack Section Trip

The Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range can be spectacular in late September.  This combined Backpack and High Peaks Sections sponsored trip takes us to Willow Lake Falls in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.  Our destination is a gorgeous alpine lake, with a cascading waterfall surrounded by 13'ers and 14'ers. You have options! Climb Mt. Adams, a Colorado Centennial peak. Bring your fishing gear and license; I'm guessing you won't be disappointed.  Hang in camp, or by the lake and waterfall. Explore the area with short hikes. All are a great way to enjoy a couple of fall days in the Colorado mountains.

The hike to the lake is a climb, so be prepped to feel it.  The next day's climb up Mt. Adams will start pre-dawn/dawn. There will be scrambling.  Some sections are class 3. 

These are my ideas. Bring yours to the table.

We'll have a check in the week before via a Zoom meeting.  A final detailed Itinerary will be sent the day before.

Looking forward to having you on this great Colorado fall colors trip!

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking, Mountaineering, Scrambling
• Climbing Category: Basic Alpine Climb
• Seasons: June, July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Difficult
• Length: 11.6 mi
• Elevation Gain: 5,027 ft
• High Point: 13,942 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area, Saguache Ranger District (RGNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 8
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12