Mt Flora from Berthoud Pass

THE PRE-MEET:

We will meet at the trailhead by 7:45am, and start hiking by 8:00am (NOT at Tommyknocker Brewery) - See directions to Mt Flora trailhead below.

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DIRECTIONS:

From Denver -The trailhead is at Berthoud Pass which is on mile marker 243 on Highway 40. Berthoud Pass can be reached from Empire. The Empire exit off I-70 is exit 233

Park at the now closed Berthoud Pass Ski Resort parking lot. The trailhead is across the highway.

THE TRAIL:

Starting elevation: 11,307' Ending Elevation: 13,132' Elevation Change: + 1,832' net elevation gain Difficulty: Moderate Total hiking time: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours
Round Trip Length: 6.4 miles For current trail conditions, information, etc., contact:
Sulphur Ranger District
9 Ten Mile Drive
Granby, CO 80446
970-887-4100 http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/d/7/2/event_122324402.jpeghttp://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/d/e/0/event_122324512.jpeg

The entire route is above timberline, so beware of thunderstorms and retreat off the ridge if thunder clouds are gathering! From the summit of Colorado Mines Peak, backtrack a short distance to the trail to the north that splits off the service road. This is the trail to Mount Flora. The trail drops about 350 feet to a saddle. The trail continues along the ridge passing intermittedly through tundra and rocks. A few small interesting tarns (glacial ponds) are passed before reaching a false summit at 12,800 feet. There are a few pinnacles along the ridge as well, but the hiking is fairly easy. The summit of Mount Flora is 0.5 mile beyond the false summit. Enjoy the spectacular views in all directions!

The total distance from Colorado Mines Peak to Mount Flora is 1.9 miles with 350 feet of elevation loss and about 1000 feet of elevation gain. The total distance from Berthoud Pass to Mount Flora is 3.6 miles one way with about 2200 feet total elevation gain and 350 feet elevation loss. The summit of Mount Flora is 13,146 feet.

It is also to possible to continue over the ridge north from the summit passing over Mount Eva, Perry Peak, and James Peak. This is a long all day hike for an experienced hiker. Don't attempt it in bad weather.

THE APRES HIKE: We will meet at Tommyknocker Brewery in Idaho Springs starting between 1:30 and 2pm (approx).
Tommyknocker Brewery
http://www.tommyknocker.com/ (http://www.dambrewery.com/) 1401 Miner Street, Idaho Springs, CO 80452 303-567-2688
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NOTES (PLEASE READ!!):

1. Bring extra water, as high elevations dehydrate the body at a faster rate.

2. Arrive early to secure parking, avoid crowds and afternoon thunderstorms. Be mindful of changing weather patterns and leave the summit well before storms develop. Expect cooler temperatures, strong sun and wind in the open tundra. Carry versatile layers with sun, wind and rain protection.

3. Hiking poles are highly recommended to assist with steep grades and uneven terrain.

4. Please remember that mountain hiking, especially high altitude hiking is going to mean that we will end up spreading out according to our pace and fitness levels. If you do split off ahead from the group, please wait at the summit for most of the members to arrive. If you feel that you will be in the tail end of the hike, we will provide a walkie-talkie to one host to communicate with the advance group (cell phones will not be of much use).

4). Bring a change of shoes for the restaurant. I suggest some sort of flip-flops. Your feet will thank you!

5. Have fun!!