I would not consider this hike "Easy" by any stretch of the imagination. There are 4 "passes" to hike, 2 of which are pretty good inclines. You gain a cumulative ~4300 ft. throughout the hike to Storm Pass... most of which are done during the 4 "passes". I know it is a long hike, but it is also important to note that there are some good elevation gains... making this hike moderate/strenuous in my book.
You have a point. West Elk Peak is a long and demanding hike. But it is just a hike. As opposed to a 10 mile hike followed by a mile long scramble. But those terms are loaded. I might replace "easy" with "on a good trail". Thanks for the input. How did you like the area?
Jon
Sounds about right... loved the area. Truly unique. Didn't see a soul on the way up. Caught some folks near the TH on the way down. Perfect hike for the Labor Day Weekend. Thanks for the great page!
ashlandbus - Sep 5, 2006 9:24 pm - Hasn't voted
Not Easy...I would not consider this hike "Easy" by any stretch of the imagination. There are 4 "passes" to hike, 2 of which are pretty good inclines. You gain a cumulative ~4300 ft. throughout the hike to Storm Pass... most of which are done during the 4 "passes". I know it is a long hike, but it is also important to note that there are some good elevation gains... making this hike moderate/strenuous in my book.
JonBradford - Sep 5, 2006 11:36 pm - Hasn't voted
Re: Not Easy...You have a point. West Elk Peak is a long and demanding hike. But it is just a hike. As opposed to a 10 mile hike followed by a mile long scramble. But those terms are loaded. I might replace "easy" with "on a good trail". Thanks for the input. How did you like the area?
Jon
ashlandbus - Sep 13, 2006 8:43 pm - Hasn't voted
Re: Not Easy...Sounds about right... loved the area. Truly unique. Didn't see a soul on the way up. Caught some folks near the TH on the way down. Perfect hike for the Labor Day Weekend. Thanks for the great page!