For the last several years, I have made a trek to a favorite spot in the back country of Colorado near Buena Vista.  This year, while I was originally going to go to Laguna Seca for motogp, I realized that spending a few grand while trying to start a new company in a down economy isnt so bright. 

So again, back pack and tent in hand, I am headed to the land of paradise, and extend the invitation to you all to join me.

From camp:





From the Harvard climb:







Here are the details as they exist thus far:
The hike begins in Buena Vista toward Mt Harvard.  You dont need to be a star athlete to get there, nor do you need your own equipment.  Like Keith and his bikes, I have enough back country equipment (tents, packs, bag, stoves) for a small invading army.  You will be hiking uphill, so yes, you will get a workout.  But you can do it at your own pace. You do NOT need to be Ed Viesturs.  The hike itself takes a moderately in shape person 3-4 hours with a moderate pack.  I am willing to take multiple trips and sherpa anyone's gear that needs it.  Without a pack, it will take 2 hours for you.  The lake is about 1/4 mile from the marked trail, and I know the way very well.. 

The cost will be minimal (your gas to get to Colorado).  I will dehydrate all the food needed for as many of you that wish to come, on my dime.  if you have your own equipment, great.  If not, I will provide it.

Only rules I ask is that you treat the area like a sanctuary.  If you pack it in, you pack it out.  We take nothing but photos, we leave nothing but foot prints.

The location is perfect for those that wish to try a back country camping trip for the first time or those wanting to summit a 14k Colorado peak as it is between Harvard and Columbia.  The 14'er part of the trip is optional, and should only be attempted by those willing to leave early the day of the summit climb and are in shape enough to handle it.  While not hard, as far as 14'ers go, it is a long hike.

I am doing this trip either way, with or without company, but would love to share it with you.

My thoughts are to meet July 3rd in Buena Vista and return the 6th.  If you are interested, I will provide a list of clothing, etc you will need.  RSVP is necessary so I can get the food prepped.

Hay ddgm there is still quite a bit of snow in the high country. but I might be liking some of that. dont know if you rember me I met you last year in ouray my name is will from durango co and I road the blue s4r. trip kinda soon but I would like to go. also my friends jim and sena also from ouray last year are avid hikers and my also like to go. let me look into this.

Sounds good.  The pics shown above are from July 3 of the last few years...so hopefully the snow is about the same..

As cool as that looks and sounds I wont be able to make it up.  Got plans with the family already for the 4th.  It sounds like on hell of a trip! 

Hell yeah!  Lets do this thang.

Ducback Mountain... In theaters this summer.       

Quote from: kingbaby on June 17, 2009, 12:49:18 PM
Ducback Mountain... In theaters this summer.       

BLINK BLINK... Yeah. Family plans.  Wont be there...  uhhh

Quote from: Ratfink749 on June 17, 2009, 01:40:08 PM
BLINK BLINK... Yeah. Family plans.  Wont be there...  uhhh

I.....cant.....quit.....you.....

that mmmiiiiigggghhhhhhtttt be a possiblity if matt can get the time off

of course we have nothing, so can we cuddle with u 

Holy shizzle guys, I know he looks cute in that little hat but he's no George Clooney. Let's try to keep our pants on.

Looks nice DDGM, but I'm afraid I'm kinda a weenie when it comes to back-packing. More of a let's go fishin' and camping guy. 

Shaazaaammm!  That would be cool, BUT, can't do it.  I'd have to take time off from work and I already am scheduled for a week off later in July for a trip to CA.  Don't have a backpack anyway.       But do have camping gear.   

My idea of camping is a hotel with a number for pizza hut taped to the desk.  Still it looks nice and, if I had an inkling of faith that my back with 5 ruptured discs could take a hike and come back down on two feet, I would make reservations with you...

I can't imagine having the rest of the crew draggin my fat ass down that beautiful hill...

You bunch - o excuse havin pussies.

I have 3 extra back packs, 6 tents, 3 stoves, 3 extra sleepings bags...


and god damn it scottish, if you take away georges good looks, money, abs and women.....you got me!!!!

hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm


Can I bring Hendricks ?!?!? 

Adam

Quote from: kingbaby on June 17, 2009, 12:49:18 PM
Hell yeah!  Lets do this thang.

Ducback Mountain... In theaters this summer.       

I prefer the term "Brokeback Desmo" 

Adam

Sorry ddgm can't make it I guess i'll be az for the 4th