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 Reporter |
Summary: From the trailhead go south along the old logging road. When the road takes a sharp turn right (West) you will see a path continuing south. This is the key to this trail. Once you find this trail the rest is easy. After the trail crosses Three Elks Creek it will begin to turn west and lead you up the East side of Mt. Columbia. This trail will cross the Colorado Trail at Harvard Lakes. These lakes are a short detour for some beautiful views. After passing these lakes the trail follows Three Elks Creek past treeline. At treeline you will have a steep slope to ascend before being able to see the large basin of Three Elks. Once in the basin the trail fades quickly. You will have to find your own route up the ridge to your left (North). Once on top of the ridge, simply follow it to the Summit of Mt Columbia. There are several false summits along the way, but keep pressing on. Trailhead: From the Stoplight in Buena Vista head north on highway 24 to Crossman Avenue and take left. Follow Crossman until you come to a T in the road. Turn right (north) onto cnty rd 361. Continue down 361 until you see a sign for Three Elks. Turn left (West) here onto cnty rd 368. Take it for a little over a mile and turn left onto cnty rd 368A. Shortly after turning left There will be a right turn onto a logging road labeled forest service 368. take this road until you see the sign for the trailhead. (approx .8 mile) Park here. The logging road leading south from here is the start of the trail. (Lat:38.90104 Lon:-106.22387) Trail Guides for Mount Columbia East Ridge: Colorados Fourteeners by Gerry Roach (Fulcrum Publishing) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Horses, Ranger Contact: San Isabel National Forest 719-553-1400 (main office) Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joshua Friesema, who has posted 97 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Colorado Hiking, Colorado Trails, Colorado Hikes, Chaffee County Hiking, Chaffee County Trails, Chaffee County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
