Trip Report: Lone Eagle Peak

It has been a busy last few weeks, but now that things have slowed down it's time to get on this trip report. 

Lone Eagle Peak is another iconic mountain of the Colorado Rockies that has been on my list of trips. Last year while backpacking in the Lost Creek Wilderness with Jeff of Mile High Mountaineering (MHM), he told me all about his trips to Lone Eagle Peak and the beautiful area. He really sold it for me, I absolutely knew we had to set this trip up and get out there this summer. Being that Jeff was so familiar with the area, we thought this would be a prefect trip to set up with MHM. As a guide into the Indian Peaks Jeff didn't disappoint. He even picked up our permits, thanks Jeff! 

We decided to make this a relaxed pace no agenda trip with the exception of getting to Lone Eagle Peak, and really enjoy the area for the three days we had. It was approx. a 14 mile round trip (to Lone Eagle Peak), so we had plenty of time. It's a good thing too, because the area is loaded with hidden treasures made up of beautiful wild-flowers, waterfalls, creeks, lush forest, open meadows, glacial lakes, iconic peaks, amazing views, and a wide range of wildlife. It was a little slice of heaven for us and we enjoyed every minute of it.

The trail head for Lone Eagle Peak begins just south east of Granby Lake at the parking area for Monarch Lake. From there you will hand rail Monarch Lake south east along the Cascade Creek Trail. 

You'll find plenty of dispersed camping spots in the area as well as easily accessed water. It's an amazing area with smooth trails that make for easy hiking. There are a few bridge crossings and a couple of rock hopping stream crossings. I can't say enough about this destination. It doesn't matter if you stay low and enjoy the lakes or if you hike all the way back to Lone Eagle Peak, you'll simply fall in love with this area. 

Just remember to properly display your permit in your windshield. I strongly suggest that after you display it, you go to the front of your vehicle and make sure it is visible. I unknowingly placed mine behind the tinted brow of my  windshield, rewarding me with a $5 fine. I could have fought this, but why bother. I'll just consider it a small donation.

Specail thanks goes out to our friends Casey and Jeff of Mile High Mountaineering for sharing one of their favortie places with us.