Twin Cone Peaks via Second Creek Trail is an incredibly scenic hike through forests of pines, a bubbling creek, an alpine hut, and across alpine tundra with incredible views.
Now one of my favorite high-altitude treks!
Stats and Map located at the bottom
It starts climbing immediately and continues as you hike alongside Second Creek in the forest and pops out to gorgeous views quickly as you ascend and reach Broome Hut,
> Broome Hut sits magnificently high in the basin. Here we found a public restroom and warming room along the side of the hut. Otherwise, reservations through > grandhuts.org are needed to say in the hut.
Picnic tables at Broome hut, full of families today. What a spot for a picnic! We aim for Twin Cone Peaks and continue past the hut to higher terrain.
It is early July and mud and snowmelt are an issue. It’s a good idea to download the trail map on allTrails app to keep on the path.
Altitude Sickness is real, know the signs > Colorado High Altitude Hiking Effects and Advice.
We crossed several short snow fields, and then the snow was gone, and wildflowers were everywhere as we reached the tundra.
It’s glorious up here — dramatic views in all directions. There is nothing like being at the highest points in Colorado, where the alpine tundra greets you.
> Day Hiking Checklist – Be prepared with the appropriate essentials for hiking in Colorado
Twin Cones is a double series of large boulders jutting upward from the earth floor and a rocky scramble to the top. More stunning views!
You can see the top chairlift for Mary Jane Winter Park Ski Resort and down below into the vastness of Grand County. Not to leave out numerous high peaks in all directions.
Ominous clouds are approaching, and sadly, that’s a sign to head back after exploring and loving this hike.
Six Moon Designs Super Light Weight Hiking Umbrella – my favorite essential.
The rain never came, so we ventured on social trails and gawked at our surroundings back to the trailhead.
Love wildflowers? Two great guides to bring along > Wildflowers of Colorado Field Guide or > Wildflowers of the Rocky Mountain Region.
Twin Cones Peak is a beautiful hike, and I highly recommend it. If you are looking for a shorter hike, stop at Broome Hut, its location is fantastic for seeing Colorado’s beauty.
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TIDBITS
5.4 miles out & back
Rated; Moderately challenging
Elevation gain: 1,466′
Twin Cone Peaks – 12,058′ elevation
The trail starts at Second Creek Trail on Berthoud Pass
No Restroom at Trailhead – can use restrooms at the Summit of Berthoud Pass
Broome Hut offers a public restroom and a warming hut for hikers.
Nearest towns: Empire, Winter Park
Vasquez Peak Wilderness
Hiking, snowshoeing, backcountry skiing,
Leashed dogs ok
Information on > The Broome Hut
> grandhuts.org for reservations for Broome Hut
HIKES NEARBY
Can't wait to see you on the trail!
Sawyer Bug Spray – this stuff works!
NUUN Energy Electrolyte Tablets – Add to your water.
NUUN Hydration Powder – I highly recommend adding to your water at high elevations.