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BPX 2-Day: Bighorn Lake from Lake Katherine TH


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BPX 2-Day: Bighorn Lake from Lake Katherine TH

This is an out and back, moderately difficult trip in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness area to a beautiful subalpine lake just below the Continental Divide. The trail starts at the Katherine TH and is 5.0 miles and 1,200 elevation gain RT.

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 2-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members:

Day 1: Start a Katherine TH which has amble parking. Hike up Lone Pine Trail (#1129) past left fork for Lake Katherine to left fork for Bighorn Lake trail (1040) to Bighorn Lake (10,200 ft.) (2.5 miles, +1,212 / -110 ft.). There are camp sites on the north and south sides of outlet from the lake.

Route Day 1

 Day 2: Return on Lone Pine Trail to Katherine TH and drive home

Route Day 2

NOTES:

  1. Always practice Leave No Trace techniques.
  2. More information about the Mount Zirkel Wilderness is available here.
  3. Driving Directions: From the Colorado Mountain Club (Golden, CO) to the Katherine TH.
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length: 5.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft
  • 10,200 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, Parks Ranger District (RNF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 6
  • Maximum Party Size: 15
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 15
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  • Trails Illustrated 117
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