Captain Mountain Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
8.5-12h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
28.6 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,272 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Captain Mountain Hike is a demanding excursion in the Mount Evans Wilderness. Hike through the dense Colorado Forests and summit not one but two peaks. This challenging adventure will reward those who conquer it with a secluded hike though the impressively verdant woodlands.

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Route Description for Captain Mountain Hike

The Captain Mountain Hike is a high effort, high reward type of adventure. This lengthy hike necessitates some planning. You will travel over 20km there and back, so make sure to head out early in the morning if you plan on completing this adventure in one day. Many explorers opt to camp at one of the designated backcountry sites along the trail and break the hike into a 2 day-excursion. Either way, make sure you pack plenty of provisions and water to stay hydrated and energized along this demanding adventure. It is also worth noting that wildlife is abundant in this area, consider a bear bell to deter any unwanted encounters.

Begin your adventure from the Echo Park Lake Trailhead. From there, take the route signposted for the Captain Mountain Trail. The initial segment of this path will guide you down into a forested gulch. As you traverse the valley, the tree coverage will become sparser. Hike east until the route curves you south and up the woodland ridge up Porcupine Hill. From Porcupine Hill, trek across the saddle to Captain Mountain. Summit Captain Mountain, then descend an exposed ridge before being led beneath tree shade. Hike the forested path all the way to the trail’s end.

The route will end when you meet Upper Bear Creek Road. If you wanted to make this a one-way excursion you could leave a car here or arrange a pickup. If not, retrace your steps along the undulating path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Captain Mountain Hike Trailhead

The Captain Mountain Hike departs from the Echo Lake Campground in the Mount Evans Wilderness.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Dispersed Backcountry Camping, restrictions apply.

  • When to do

    July-September

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Captain Mountain Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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Captain Mountain Hike Reviews

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