AlpineAccess
Hard Core 4+
My wife and I are planning to run out to Pawnee National Grasslands tomorrow to check out the Buttes in the winter. Thought is to leave Fort Collins around 12:30 and get there about 2PM when the temp for the day is at its warmest point. Not a bad drive for anyone on the front range really. If you are coming up from Denver, Fort Morgan makes a nice spot to grab some food and gas.
Thinking we could meet in Ault, or at an intersection further out if anyone is interested in joining us. We are considering doing the 4.5 mile out and back hike at the Buttes, but even on a good day the winds in the grasslands are strong, and tomorrow is predicted to have some cutting winds. With temps in the 45-50* range and my wife being ok with wind or ok with cold (but not both at the same time) we're planning to call and audible.
Pawnee Buttes
Directions:The trailhead is not easy to get to and requires some driving on dirt roads, but these are good dirt roads and passenger cars should have no problem. From Fort Collins, head east on Hwy...
www.gohikecolorado.com
It's just gravel roads so nothing really around wheeling, but some fun off-shoot trails out there to explore. The parts of the grasslands we have been to are flat out beautiful, and this time of year we haven't experienced having to contend with any crowds. Pretty amazing geography and we always bring binoculars to take in the wildlife.
One of the best places to take in meteor showers, get away from people, camp out, do a little target shooting, etc.
With snow in the forecast for next week it's a nice time to get out to check it out when the roads are clear.