Four backpacking routes to Colorado’s high places

Entire books are written on this subject, and the internet is a rabbit hole of route-finding information and logistics. To simplify, here are a few options to get you tempted to take up backpacking.

High Lonesome Loop, Indian Peakswilderness

Easy; 2 days

This 16-mile loop route— formed by connecting the Devil’s Thumb, High Lonesome and King Lake trails— starts and ends at the Hessie Trailhead, near Eldora Ski Resort. It’s an excellent starter backpacking loop because it delivers something of everything in a two-day trip: high alpine lakes, a mountain ridge, the Continental Divide and incredible views. Hikers argue over whether it’s best to go clockwise or counterclockwise, but either way, you’re climbing. Camping permits are required. Get them and more info at your local ranger district of the Arapahoe and Roosevelt National Forest: www.fs.usda.gov/arp.

Tonahutu Loop, Rocky Mountain National Park

Easy; 3-4 days

Rockymountain National Park has many trailheads, and this 25mile loop begins on the park’s west side at Tonahutu/north Inlet trailhead near Granby. The loop, which links Tonahutu Creek Trail with the Continental Divide Trail and North Inlet Trail, features streams and waterfalls, alpine lakes and open meadows.

Backcountry camping permits are required. Find information on permits and trail and camp conditions at nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/wild_guide.htm or call 970-586-1206.

Four Pass Loop, Snowmass Wilderness

Medium; 3-4 days

It’s only 27 miles, but this classic hike out of Aspen clambers over four 12,000-foot passes as it circumnavigates the iconic Maroon Bells. Trail runners tackle it in a single day, but backpackers have the advantage of going slow and steady. You’ll want trekking poles for this much elevation gain — more than 10,000 feet to climb up and down. Start at iconic Maroon Lake and enjoy the views. More info: White River National Forest, Aspen Ranger District, 970-925-3445, www.fs.usda.gov/ whiteriver

Continental Divide Loop, Weminuche Pass

Hard

There’s a reason people refer to southern Colorado’sweminuche Wilderness as the Alps of America. This is rugged, remote terrain with days of high-altitude hiking, panoramic views and mountains steep and stacked. This 36-mile loop starts and ends at Thirtymile Campground. Begin on theweminuche Trail and climb toweminuche Pass before connecting with the Continental Divide Trail. Return via Rincon La Vaca Trail to Weminuche Trail. Expect exposed, high-alpine terrain. More info: San Juannational Forest, 970-247-4874, www.fs.fed.us/r2/sanjuan/