Caribu Lake V.I.A Arapahoe Pass Trail

We started our trip on the 4th of July trailhead and saw BEAUTIFUL wildflowers throughout the hike.

We had planned on hiking down to monarch lake the next day. However, because of a wind event that trail was closed so we hiked the caribou trail down to junco lake trailhead instead.

Finding all of the campsites was a little tricky but there was only one other couple camping there so we had our pick. It was really beautiful and peaceful. Two other people we talked to said that they saw some moose in the morning before we arrived.

The biggest issue was the amount of mosquitoes. Inside the tent we could hear thousands just swarming the area and they moved in clouds. If you stopped for more than 15 seconds you were swarmed. I currently have about 52 (I counted) mosquito bites just from one night of camping. Pro-tip: they love the trees so try to stay away from those.

However, if you can get past the swarms of mosquitoes, this is a beautiful site with plenty of wildflowers and some cool trout! Definitely a rewarding place to stay after a long hike! We used the stream to refill our waters (don’t forget to purify) and it was delicious!

We hiked back up the pass and onto the caribou lake trail. There were some rock slides on the trail making the pass kind of treacherous in areas so take your time if hiking there!

The hike over the divide takes time and patience when starting out at the Fourth of July trail. Once you concur the hike you will be amazed at the views, the wildlife and the serenity of some of Gods untouched land. If your in shape I would highly recommend the hike and experience.

Indian Peaks Wilderness is an amazing area. You won’t be disappointed making this trek over the divide starting at the 4th of July trailhead. Make sure to stop at Lake Dorthy.