Ascending Hikes - Skill Building – Mt Goliath from Echo Lake Campground

Straight-up off-trail route from Echo Lake Campground to Mt Goliath summit (12,218'). This means through the forest and three road crossings.  Along the way we will mark where we exit the forest in order to help us re-trace our steps. On the way back we'll view a bristlecone forest and an avalanche danger area.

You must be know how to use map and compass and/or know how to use a good navigating app on your phone such as Gaia, OnX, All Trails, or CoTrex.  We'll work together on that during the trip. Goals:

--- See the Echo Lake area, a gateway to Mt Evans (Blue Sky) Wilderness

--- Hike uphill at relatively high altitude 

--- Route-find in the forest

--- Summit Mt Goliath

--- View Bristlecone pine trees.

--- Observe an avalanche site

--- Use and understand a gpx route, map, terrain profile

--- Understand lightning risks and response

--- Discuss CMC classes and sections appropriate for further learning.

--- Dress appropriately for the weather, carry your ten essentials, bring micro-spikes in case of lingering ice.  (Hope to let you know the day before).

--- Bring a team-work attitude.

Meet at Wooly Mammoth Section BB in time for a prompt 6:00 am departure. We will carpool to the Echo Lake Campground, Evergreen, CO 80439, which is just before the kiosk entrance to Mt Blue Sky Rd.  We will park in the campground near to the road, across from the restrooms.  

Robbie and Jean are leading a number of SkillBuilder Ascending Hikes this summer, mostly on Saturdays.  See our proposed summer schedule, subject to change.