Backpacking dry run at Lory State Park

Interested in backpacking? Join us for a fun one-nighter just outside of Fort Collins. It’s literally a dry run as there is no water on the trail so bring it along for the ride. Also this is an opportunity to test gear and readiness – as well as gauge interest in backpacking among Edge hikers for a bigger trip later in the summer. Garrison and I have reserved two campsites but space is limited.

On Saturday evening we will start at Homestead picnic area in Lory. Meet at 5pm to depart shortly after. We will climb the Overlook and Fireline trails 2.5 miles to Arthur’s Rock summit, then camp near the summit at backcountry sites 4 and 5. On Saturday morning we will take the Timber and Well Gulch trails 3 miles back down to Homestead.

Everyone must bring everything they need for the trip, including hiking, camping, and cooking gear, as well as food and water. Here is a standard supply list that you can adjust for this event: BackpackingChecklist.pdf. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect – it’s a dry run after all – and sure to be a goofy good time! No s’mores however as campfires are not allowed. Stoves only.

Lory State Park entrance fee is $10 per vehicle unless you have state parks entry covered on your registration. Please bring $4 to help cover the campsite fee (cash or venmo). Homestead picnic area has a small parking row that is lightly used. In the unlikely event it is full when you arrive, you can park at the larger nearby Eltuck picnic area lot 1/4 mile north of Homestead. As usual, carpooling to the trailhead is recommended. 😎