Escaping The Nutshell

Parked near trailhead of Coney Creek 4WD Road at Beaver Reservoir. Started hiking at 9:30, going west on road. High-oxygen pine-scented forest air was heavenly. Lots of puddles on road from moist summer. Reaching Coney Flats, surprised to see no one there.

2014-08-02 Coney Flats

Over bridge, onto Buchanan Pass Trail, and into Indian Peaks Wilderness. First meadow impresses with Sawtooth Mtn view. Further on, meadows explode with wildflowers. Clear blue skies on way to Buchanan Pass.

2014-08-02 Buchanan Pass Trail

Snow around pass, but trail is clear. At pass, turned left to Sawtooth. Summited at 12:50. Crystal clear views from top: Audubon, Algonquin, Thunderbolt, Red Deer, Meeker/Longs, St Vrain, Coney Island.

2014-08-02 Marmot off Buchanan Pass Trail

Headed down same way. Stopped to watch whistling marmots below pass. At Coney flats again, ATV bubbas have arrived, drinkin beer and burpin. Returned at 17:29.

Elevation difference: 12363 - 9191 = 3172
Distance traveled: 13.6 miles
Time to summit: 3 hrs, 20 mins
Total time: 8 hrs

Tracks for entire hike.

2014-08-02 Elevation profile: Sawtooth Mtn from Beaver Reservoir