Arapaho Pass via Monarch Lake Hike

Route Description for Arapaho Pass via Monarch Lake Hike

Lace up your hiking boots and pack your backpack because we are hiking through the wilderness. This rewarding hike will guide you from the west side of the Continental Divide, all the way over to the east. This trail is primitive and overgrown in sections, so make sure you have a trail GPS handy. Additionally, the hike over the pass is exposed to the elements, wear layers and check the weather prior to your departure to avoid storms. The hike up the Divide is also very rocky and steep, hikers should be prepared to scramble up a loose rocky talus to the summit.

This hike begins from the Monarch Lake Trailhead in the Arapaho National Recreation Area and ends at the Fourth of July Trailhead. Make sure you have a car waiting for you at the finish line! From the Monarch Lake Trailhead take the Arapaho Pass Trail. Continue along this trail as it guides you through the woodlands. Navigate overgrowth and around any downed trees along the path. As you progress through the trail, you will gradually begin gaining elevation. It will become steep and rocky as you begin to ascend the timberline. Maneuver through the switchbacks until you top the trees. This section of the trail is technical and exposed. As you ascend Arapaho Pass you will have to climb a steep talus field. Scramble over the loose rocks and boulders, following the switchbacks to the pass. Once at the top of the pass you will have amazing views of the surrounding cloud scraping Indian Peaks and the alpine lakes below. Enjoy the view before beginning your descent.

Now this is the easy part. Continue following the Arapaho Pass Trail down the side of the Divide. Mind your footing as you descend the steep rocky ridge. You will be guided back into the woods for the final segment of your adventure. Maintain along the Arapaho Pass Trail for the entirety of your hike, avoiding any diverging trails at junctions. Hike the trail all the way down to the Fourth of July parking lot.