Backpacking to the 4th of July Mine

Our grandson's first ever backpacking trip to the high country. We went up to the 4th of July Mine from the 4th of July Trailhead in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. We had plenty of highs, a few lows, learned a lot, and even had an unexpected Moose encounter on trail!

The trail is full of scenery, ever changing trail conditions, plenty of water sources, and a few waterfalls to boot. Just before the mine, look for plentiful campsites off trail. Enjoy several day hikes beyond the mine, Lake Dorothy, Arapaho Pass, the Arapaho Glacier, or even hit a 13er on S Arapaho Peak.

The road to the trailhead is rough and unmaintained most of the year. High clearance and 4WD are recommended, though a Subaru will handle it just fine!

Hessie and 4th of July Rd - 3:14 l 4th of July TH - 3:57 l Waterfall - 7:35 l Diamond Lake Split - 9:08 l Campsite - 13:23 l 4th of July Mine - 16:31 l Moose Encounter - 22:42 l Bloopers - 27:23

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