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BPX 3-Day: Comanche Venable Loop from Comanche Venable TH

This is a difficult trip to two beautiful lakes in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness in San Isabel National Forest. Visit Venable Falls and reach the crest of the Sangre de Cristos at Comanche Pass and hike a scenic traverse on the Phantom Terrace. The loop is 12.5 miles and 4,300 feet elevation gain.

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 3-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members

Day 1. Hike on the Venable Trail (#1347).  After approximately a half-mile hike through forest, reach a T intersection with the Rainbow Trail. Turn left to stay on the Venable Trail. After two miles, you reach a sign for a short spur trail to Venable Falls (~400 ft one way). Leave the trees behind and push through a series of switchbacks that deliver you to Venable Lakes. Camp near the lake. (4.5 miles/2900’). 

Day 2. Climb to Phantom Terrace and traverse along the Phantom Terrace Ridge, turn left (east) and descend to Comanche Lake.  Make camp near Comanche Lake (4.3 miles/+1460’, -1800’).

 Day 3. Return to the trailhead continuing straight by the Rainbow Trail.  (4 miles/-2700’).

Overall Route

  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Length: 12.5 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 4,300 ft
  • 13,235 ft
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area, San Carlos Ranger District (PSINF)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 6
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • Trails Illustrated 138
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