Colorado Springs Backpackers

Required actions before trip:
1 - *Fill out waiver: https://forms.gle/71SPiqc4iyqDmD8Y7
2 - *Complete a qualifying hike*.* Check the calendar regularly for upcoming opportunities. You will keep your place in line on the waitlist so long as you qualify within one month of the trip.
3- Attend a pre-planning Google Hangout meeting one week before trip start date (will send invite via Google closer to).
*including any 1+.

This is no casual stroll in the desert. It's a Coyote Gulch backpacking adventure.

After an eleven-hour drive from Colorado Springs, we’ll backpack down a crack of a slot canyon. The route demands hands-on movement, careful decision-making, and a steady head as we climb out via a wall (those with fear of heights might not want to join this adventure), earning our exit one move at a time.

This route comes with serious consequences—exposure, route-finding, and terrain that doesn’t forgive complacency. It also comes with serious reward: towering rock, silence broken only by breath and boots, and the kind of earned confidence that only shows up after doing something hard.

Some important things to consider before RSVPing for this trip.

• It's an 11-hour drive from Colorado Springs.
• We will take the route that requires class 5 friction climbing - watch this video for info: https://youtu.be/pQgqSjP5zZA?t=296
• You must carry out all waste (meaning - you have to use a wag bag or hold it).
• Fires are prohibited. Stoves are allowed. Nights could be cold.
• Pets are prohibited.
• Weather will likely range from 30 - 75 degrees.
• 4WD recommended for Forty Mile Ridge Rd but we can figure something out if you don't have it.

Limited to 6 people.

Total Mileage: 12 - 14 miles with side quests.
Elevation: About 1700 with climb in and out of gulch.

Leader Plan - everyone else can arrive Fri AM.
WED PM - Leave COS
THURS - Get Permit (scope out rope situation at Jacob's)
FRI - Everyone Meets. Hike about 6 - 7 miles, camp.
SAT - Hike out 6 - 7 miles. Go to Peekaboo, Spooky Slot Canyons and explore. Camp out on BLM land.
SUN - Head home.
Note: You can come out early or meet us in Escalante area on Friday at 8 AM.

Coyote Gulch - rough hiking map https://caltopo.com/m/A3PVMJ0

1. Fill out waiver: https://forms.gle/71SPiqc4iyqDmD8Y7
2. Complete a qualifying hike. Check the calendar regularly for upcoming opportunities. You will keep your place in line on the waitlist so long as you qualify within one month of the trip.
3. Attend a pre-trip virtual planning meeting about one week before trip start date.

Duration: 2 days/1 night
Distance: ~15 miles, 1500' elevation change
Group Size: 6 (we might increase to 8 if there is enough interest)
Difficulty: Intermediate

Description

Route map: https://caltopo.com/m/G8JGPK0

Join me for an early season overnight. This trip is a chance to ease into the season with a casual pace while still spending time in rugged terrain.

On Saturday afternoon, we will hike in from the Bear Gulch Trailhead (use a GPS point from the CalTopo to find directions) at 1 PM, heading north along the creek before selecting a camp (~4 miles). There will be opportunities to explore side creeks and do some fishing along the way or after setting camp.

On Sunday, we will continue north into “The Tights,” a beautiful canyon section. The trail shifts between faint game paths and stretches of old railroad bed, and there are numerous creek crossings. This makes for a great opportunity to practice route finding in a supportive group setting. After exploring the canyon, we will return the way we came (~10 miles). If time and energy allow, we may continue south past the trailhead to explore more of the creek.

The overall elevation gain is gentle, but the terrain can be challenging. Expect uneven footing and multiple creek crossings that may be knee deep depending on conditions. There is also plenty of cactus in this area, so careful foot placement is important.

The road to the trailhead is rough and poorly graded. AWD or 4WD with decent clearance is strongly recommended. If you do not have a suitable vehicle, we can help coordinate carpools.

We will hold a planning meeting about one week before the trip to confirm attendance, review gear and conditions, and answer any final questions.