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3-Day: North Crestone Lake from North Crestone Lake TH


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3-Day: North Crestone Lake from North Crestone Lake TH

Hike to a particularly beautiful lake in the Sangre de Cristo wilderness and explore this dramatic area. Possibly day hike over two passes and along the high Phantom Terrace. 7 miles and 1,800 vertical feet for this out-and-back trip.

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 North Crestone Creek Trail, #744. Establish camp below treeline, about a mile above the big trail intersection (3.5 miles 1750 ft). Day hike to North Crestone Lake  (4.4  miles/+1600 ft round trip to camp)

Day 2. Fish, relax in camp, or day hike the scenic, west side Comanche Pass/Phantom Terrace/Venable Pass loop (12 miles +/- 4200 ft)

Day 3. Return to trailhead (3.5 miles/-1750ft)

Driving Directions: Take Hwy 17 to Moffat and follow Crestone Road (CR T) eastward to Crestone. Follow the paved road through Crestone to North Crestone CG. The trail begins at the end of the road at the east end of the campground.

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length: 7.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,800 ft
  • 10,301 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: 6
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
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  • Trails Illustrated 138
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