Trip
Hiking – Stormy Peaks-1943 B-17 Crash Site
The out-n-back discovery hike to the B-17 crash site near Stormy Peaks begins at Pingree Park and climbs through forested trails and alpine meadows with stunning views of the Mummy Range. After several miles on established trail, hikers leave the path for a steep, off-trail scramble through a rugged boulder field. At the remote site, scattered wreckage from the 1943 crash rests as a powerful and sobering reminder of the mountain’s history. This is the first hike in the series of hikes to visit plane crash sites.
Contacts
- Sun, Jul 27, 2025
- Bobcats Section
- Hiking
- Adults
- Moderate
- Moderate
- Mileage: 6.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,900 ft
- High Point Elevation: 11,569 ft
- Pace: 1.5 - 2.0 MPH
- 6 (8 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
This strenuous hike to the B-17 crash site near Stormy Peaks offers a rewarding mix of alpine scenery and historical significance. Starting from the Pingree Park Trailhead, the route follows a maintained trail through lush forest and open meadows with sweeping views of the Mummy Range. After several miles, we'll leave the trail and navigate a steep off-trail section, requiring route-finding skills and comfort with uneven terrain. The final stretch involves a scramble through a boulder field to reach the isolated crash site, where scattered wreckage from a 1943 Army Air Forces bomber remains. This remote and solemn destination is best suited for experienced hikers prepared for off-trail travel and variable mountain conditions.We'll find a comfortable spot for lunch/snack. Our pace will be consistent with completing this hike in a reasonable amount of time.Overall ~6 miles and ~1900 ft elevation gain. (B-17 Crash Site - Comanche - CalTopo)
The Bobcats’ mission is to ensure a variety of adventurous CMC trips, mostly on weekdays, all year long. Our trips tend to be faster-paced, on more challenging routes, and with fewer stops. We foster a strong community of hikers seeking challenge, discovery, and camaraderie. You can search the CMC Calendar for Bobcat trips any time by selecting “Bobcats Section” in the CMC Trip Calendar “Section pull-down menu. To join our free mailing list and become a member, select the Bobcats Section anytime in your Member Profile. (Bobcats Section — The Colorado Mountain Club)
Carpool Place & Time: Meet at the King Soopers (NW corner) in Fort Collins at 7:00AM, for a 7:15AM departure (King Soopers Marketplace - Google Maps)
We'll carpool to the Stormy Peaks Trailhead Parking (Stormy Peaks Trailhead - Google Maps)
Required Equipment
Ten essentials are required. Trekking poles are recommended.