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• Gianttrack Mountain
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Gianttrack Mountain

August 11th, 2009

Report Summary

Gianttrack Mountain is just outside RMNP. Its upper slopes and summit are within the Roosevelt National Forest, but access is limited due to the surrounding private properties. Since we had access from our rental cabin, we decided to check it out. From where we started, there was no maintained trail, just a very loose path into the woods. It was very steep, but we found a narrow trail after about 10 minutes of climbing. The woods were thick enough to provide consistent shade yet open enough not to hinder the scramble up or down. I think the small trail we found was created by the neighboring land owners. After a short bit, it connected to the National Forest trail. The main trail led us from the north side, around the west, and up the southern slope. The route gave us a lot of nice views from the Mummy Range to Twin Sisters. It was easy hiking. And though it was a horse trail too, the condition and the odor were OK. Eventually, we reached a point where "No Trespassing" signs were posted. At that point, there was no discernable trail for the final leg to the summit. It was very open terrain so I just headed up without a trail. After a few minutes, I found a small trail at the base of some rock formations. I could see that it descended to the main trail a little bit beyond the signs. There was also a less defined trail heading through the rock formations to the summit. I followed the regular trail and was on the summit a short time later. Sandy climbed up through the rocks. The summit ridge was large and very similar to other summits at the edge of tree line. We had a beautiful, clear day to enjoy the 360° views from the top.

The National Forest lands extend south from the summit to Rams Horn Mountain, Teddys Teeth, and Lily Mountain. You can see Rams Horn in the picture looking towards Twin Sisters. On a future visit, we may try hiking all the way to Lily Mountain. Looks like an interesting off-trail adventure.

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