Captain Mountain Hike

The Captain Mountain Hike is a high effort, high reward type of adventure. This lengthy hike necessitates some planning. You will travel over 20km there and back, so make sure to head out early in the morning if you plan on completing this adventure in one day. Many explorers opt to camp at one of the designated backcountry sites along the trail and break the hike into a 2 day-excursion. Either way, make sure you pack plenty of provisions and water to stay hydrated and energized along this demanding adventure. It is also worth noting that wildlife is abundant in this area, consider a bear bell to deter any unwanted encounters.

Begin your adventure from the Echo Park Lake Trailhead. From there, take the route signposted for the Captain Mountain Trail. The initial segment of this path will guide you down into a forested gulch. As you traverse the valley, the tree coverage will become sparser. Hike east until the route curves you south and up the woodland ridge up Porcupine Hill. From Porcupine Hill, trek across the saddle to Captain Mountain. Summit Captain Mountain, then descend an exposed ridge before being led beneath tree shade. Hike the forested path all the way to the trail’s end.

The route will end when you meet Upper Bear Creek Road. If you wanted to make this a one-way excursion you could leave a car here or arrange a pickup. If not, retrace your steps along the undulating path back to the trailhead.