ECC001
Location: 40.306419, -105.538002
Begin on wide, crushed-stone path
ECC002
Location: 40.304729, -105.540298
Veer L onto 2-track dirt road (poorly marked). In a few strides, swing R onto thin trail, following signs to Estes Cone
ECC003
Location: 40.30283, -105.541702
Veer L onto 2-track dirt road (poorly marked). In a few strides, swing R onto thin trail, following signs to Estes Cone
ECC004
Location: 40.301849, -105.5448
Stairs drop into an offshoot of Aspen Brook, deeply cut from rapid spring melt (only a trickle in midsummer)
ECC005
Location: 40.300468, -105.545601
Go straight @ 4-way; immediately cross bridge. Trail begins climbing
ECC006
Location: 40.304401, -105.550102
Cross more bridges and under a few large, lifeĀless aspens where hawks prey on squirrels and mice in the forest duff. Eventually, pass through short hallway of tilted rocks to a brief overlook above Lily Lake
ECC007
Location: 40.301201, -105.557198
After a few switchbacks, trail eases briefly near two VW-bug-sized rocks among conifers and stacks of deadfall tinder. Intermittent views of the Twin Sisters to E
ECC008
Location: 40.294472, -105.560402
Path boomerangs around the W side of Estes Cone
ECC009
Location: 40.29187, -105.569099
Hulking, sheer Diamond Face of Longs Peak dominates W horizon. Keep hiking: Eye candy gets better!
ECC010
Location: 40.293049, -105.573799
Reach Storm Pass; turn R to begin short, steep ascent of Estes Cone
ECC011
Location: 40.294102, -105.570702
Caution: Rocky trail switchbacks @ odd places. Watch for random cairns
ECC012
Location: 40.295292, -105.567398
Estes Cone (11,006 ft.): Summit serves up views of dozens of snowy peaks, including Mt. Meeker and Longs Peak
INFO For information on permits, current trail and camp conditions, and wilderness guidelines, go to nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/backcountry.htm
PERMIT A wilderness permit is required for all overnight camping in the backcountry. Reservations accepted ($20 administrative fee for permits during peak season). nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/backcntry_guide.htm
CONTACT Rocky Mountain National Park, (970) 586-1206; nps.gov/romo
-Mapped by Kris Wagner
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