Calico Tanks Alternative Route
Details
REQUIREMENTS FOR SIGN UP - NO EXCEPTIONS
• YOU MUST SIGN A WRITTEN WAIVER TO ATTEND THIS HIKE. The link to the written waiver is here:
http://richardwaltjen.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/written-waiver.pdf
You will not be moved to the "going" list without providing a signed waiver to the email address on the waiver.
If you have already provided one to me, you do not need to provide another one.
AND
• You must have done one of my Tier 2 or higher hikes (or equivalent), OR have a "Scrambling Skills" pin.
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HIKE DESCRIPTION
Calico Tanks is one of the most popular places in the Park for good reason. A natural pond this high up in the rocks is fascinating and it has a great view of the city. It has the ability to be awe inspiring. The contrast in colors of rocks around the tank is another reason this place is interesting.
The normal route to Calico Tanks involves driving along the 13-mile loop to the Sandstone Quarry trail head and then hiking approximately 2 miles on a heavily traveled trail that even has a lot of steps added into the rocks. It's a relatively easy hike with some elevation gain that can get the heart pounding. We won't be doing that hike. I created this route as an alternative in December of 2010.
We'll visit areas that you probably haven't been to and see new rock formations. There are many different holes and small alcoves to see along the way. We'll always have a view of Calico Basin looking east towards the city.
http://richardwaltjen.com/galleries-2/animal-gallery/
Not for beginners or those afraid of heights. There are some places that require intermediate scrambling skills and there is some exposure. You must be able to pull your body weight up and lower yourself down using your arms.
• Helmets are always welcome. Be sure to use one that doesn't block your sight.
• Always carry "in case of emergency" numbers with you.
• No guests will be allowed without my prior approval.
YOU MUST BE ON THE "GOING" LIST IN ORDER TO GO ON THIS HIKE. CRASHING WILL NOT BE ALLOWED.
Meet location will be sent on by message or text on the night before the hike.
PASSAGES
• Kristy's Chute
STATS
• Distance: ~ 4 miles loop.
• Elevation gain: ~ 1400 ft.
• High point: 4720
• Low point: 3700
• Difficulty: moderate
• Pace: ~ 1 Miles Per Hour
• Children: no.
• Dogs: no.
INFORMATION LINKS
Scrambling Tiers
http://richardwaltjen.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/rickw-scrambling-tiers.pdf
Passages
http://richardwaltjen.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Passages.pdf
Pin Program
http://richardwaltjen.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Pin-Collection.pdf