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 Reporter |
Summary: From the parking lot, head north on a clear trail that will take you up past a couple of mining buildings. The trail will then turn left and head up a short series of switchbacks up to a saddle. Don't get too impatient to turn left, a few trails take off early, but are loose and harder. At the saddle you can either follow the trail that heads off to the left of the saddle to the Southwest and into more switch backs or just take the Southwest ridge straight to the summit of Democrat. The switchbacks are much easier, but if you need to learn a lesson about climbing fourteeners go for the direct route. There is one false summit, so don't get your hopes up too soon. On your way back down stop again at the saddle and look around on the north side to find a very interesting mine. Trailhead: From Fairplay head north on Colorado 9. In the center of the town of Alma there is a left turn across from a general store with a small sign directing you to Kite Lake. Turn onto this road and follow it approximately 6 miles to its end at Kite Lake. There is a small parking fee charged to park here, and an additional camping fee if you intend to camp as well. This is the trailhead. (Lat:39.32738 Lon:-106.12934) Trail Guides for Mount Democrat: Colorados Fourteeners by Gerry Roach (Fulcrum Publishing) 100 Classic Hikes in Colorado Second Edition by Scott S Warren (The Mountaineers Books) Colorados Best by Bruce Caughey and Doug Whitehead (Fulcrum Publishing) Best Seasons: Year-Round 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 
Reviewed by Jim M on 2/19/2005 An easy fourteener. The view from the top was good in all directions except down to the West overlooking the Climax mining operation. What terrible desecration of the landscape! The vivid colors of all the holding ponds make you think about what might be contained in them and their effect on downstream water quality. 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, Park County Hiking, Park County Trails, Park County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
