Anyone heading up to Summit County or points west for a day of skiing via Interstate 70 has gazed at this peak. Standing guard over the north side of I-70 just past Bakerville, the Interstate Gully calls to every backcountry skier and says ski me. When making the return to Denver many people I've gone to the mountains with have asked me what the fences on the south face were for. It has called to me for years and this winter during a week or so of high pressure I knocked it off my list of mountains to ski. I thought I'd share it with you more advanced ski mountaineers.

Getting There

There are 2 options for getting to this peak.

First: This is the route we used and I think is the best route. Exit I70 at the Loveland Pass exit. There is a pull out on your right at the end of the westbound exit ramp. You can also reach this parking area by turning left just before the westbound entrance to I-70. This is the Dry Gulch Trailhead and the start of your day.

Second: If you choose to ascend the gully directly park at the Herman Gulch Trailhead, I will add the exit number after my next trip to the mountains on Monday.

Red Tape

No red tape that I know of however I would assume that there would be a hefty fine for making the Interstate Gully side across I-70. The USGS maps don't show this as a closed area like they do for the nearby 7 Sisters Gullies on US Highway 6.

Camping

Camping is not recommended as this area is right on I-70. If you must camp hike/skin back into Dry Gulch and camp there. The noice on I70 will keep you awake if you don't go in a ways

External Links

Mesowest Weather Data

Coloado Avalanche Information Forcast

Intellicast Nexrad Loop

Images



[ View Gallery - 5 More Images ]