BPX 3-Day: Devil’s Thumb Lake from Hessie TH

Hike to the scenic Devil’s Thumb Lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, with an opportunity to see Devils Thumb, Devils Thumb Pass, Broome Mountain, Rogers Peak, Mount Jasper, Mount Neva, Mount Audubon, Paiute Peak, and Toll Peak. We can also explore along the Continental Divide Trail (High Lonesome Trail)

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 3-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members.

Day 1: Drive to Hessie TH. Hike along the Devil’s Thumb to Devil’s Thumb Lake and find a campsite (5.75 miles, +2,242 / -121 ft.).

Route Day 1

Day 2: Relax at camp and enjoy the environment. Day hike options, include:

Optional Day Hike: Storm Lake (3.6 miles, +-1000 ft.)

Optional Day Hike: High Lonesome (4.9 miles, +-1,500 ft.)

Optional Day Hike: Devil's Thumb (4.8 miles, +-2150 ft.)

Day 3: Hike back to the trailhead (5.75 miles, +121 / -2,242 ft.) and drive home.

Route Day 3

Overall Route: 11.5 miles, +- 2,373 ft.

NOTES:

1. Always practice Leave No Trace techniques.
2. More information about the Indian Peaks Wilderness is available here.
3. Overnight Permits are required in the Indian Peaks Wilderness and can be obtained through Recreation.gov.
4. This trip can be done in 2 days.
5. CalTopo Map
6. Google Map Driving Directions: From the Colorado Mountain Club (Golden, CO) to the Hessie TH.

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking
• Seasons: June, July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Length: 11.4 mi
• Elevation Gain: 2,260 ft
• High Point: 11,149 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Boulder Ranger District (ARNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 6
• Maximum Party Size: 8
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12