BPX 3-Day: Crystal Lakes from Mayflower Lakes TH

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

Day 1: Drive to Mayflower Lakes TH near Breckenridge (approx. 2 hrs). Take Wheeler National Recreational Trail (#39) for about 3/4mile (400 ft. elevation) to the junction with jeep road to the Lower Crystal Lake (also goes to the Upper Crystal Lake TH). Hike up this fairly steep 4x4 road and camp after about 1.25 miles in the last of the trees and away from the road (1.25 miles, 620 ft.). Camp for 2 nights. Option to hike up about half a mile to Lower Crystal Lake without packs.

Route Day 1

Optional Day Hike: Lower Crystal Lake, 1.25 miles, +-479 ft.

Day 2: Optional day hike to Upper Crystal Lake and then hike around the lake or, just hike up to Lower Crystal Lake. . Take Crystal Lakes Trail (#44) to Upper Crystal Lake (5.1 miles, +-1,502 ft.).

Route Day 2

Day 3: Return to Mayflower TH by retracing your steps down hill (1.25 miles, -620 ft .).

Route Day 3

Overall Route: 2.5 miles, +-650 ft.

NOTES:

1. Always practice Leave No Trace techniques.
2. Driving Directions: From the Colorado Mountain Club (Golden, CO) to the Mayflower Lakes TH.
3. Alternate: Two day version with optional hike to Upper Crystal Lake on first or second day.

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking
• Seasons: June, July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 3.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft
• High Point: 12,900 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Dillon Ranger District (WRNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 6
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12