Backpack the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness Loop
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About this place
Colorado's Spring & early Summer hiking at its best - this underrated gem traverses the little known Buffalo Peaks Wilderness, forming a loop that spans open meadows, gorgeous forests and rushing creeks. Even better there's a good chance you'll find solitude in whats considered one of the best overnight hikes in the region.
Starting at the Rich Creek Campground this wonderful moderate hike forms a loop by connecting the Rich Creek Trail and the Tumble Creek trail. in the Buffalo Peaks wilderness.
Flanked by the Collegiate Peaks, in Spring and Summer the area is awash with rushing creeks, lush wet lowlands deep green forests. The scenery along the hike varies widely with only moderate traffic you may have much of the view to yourself.
Whilst the loop can certainly be completed in a long day, its best to break it up over 2 days, take your time and enjoy the stunning scenery.
There are various campsites spread along the loop depending on which way you take the hike, (counter-clockwise is most common) you can generally find one easily enough. One of the best locales is Buffalo Meadows - pretty much in the middle of the loop, with expansive views over the verdant green landscape.
Access to water generally isn't a problem with many creeks along the route, and there are good water sources near the Buffalo Meadows campsites.
Sunrise and sunsets here are especially gorgeous, the early morning Sun filtering through the low lying mist is exceedingly beautiful and well worth the effort getting up early for.
Leave No Trace
