Eagles Nest Wilderness Area

Embark on a difficult hiking adventure along the Red Buffalo Pass via Gore Creek and Meadow Creek Trails, a challenging 12.8-mile (20.6 km) route. You will gain 3377 feet (1029 metres) in elevation, requiring an estimated 6 hours and 45 minutes to complete. The trail leads you through diverse landscapes, from initial pine and aspen groves to higher conifer forests, eventually opening into expansive alpine meadows and valleys. As you ascend, you will encounter panoramic views of rugged peaks and the distant Tenmile Range, with Eccles Pass offering a particularly striking vista of one of Colorado's most spectacular basins. The pass itself provides clear views of Buffalo Mountain and Red Peak, surrounded by endless wildflower meadows. This journey offers a true wilderness experience, immersing you in the heart of the Eagles Nest Wilderness.

This route is typically undertaken as a point-to-point journey, often starting from the Meadow Creek Trailhead near Frisco and concluding at the Gore Lake Trailhead in East Vail. Due to its linear nature, you will need to arrange shuttle transportation between the two trailheads before you begin. As the trail enters the Eagles Nest Wilderness, it is essential to be aware of and adhere to all specific wilderness regulations. Proper preparation for a high-elevation hike is crucial, especially considering the steep and technical descent from the pass.

The Red Buffalo Pass trail is notable for its traverse through the stunning Eagles Nest Wilderness Area, showcasing a rich natural environment. You will experience a dramatic change in ecosystems, moving from lower elevation forests to high alpine terrain. The area is renowned for its vast wildflower meadows and the dramatic, jagged peaks that define the landscape. This trail offers a unique opportunity to explore a significant portion of this protected wilderness, providing a deep immersion into its natural beauty and challenging topography.

Hike the difficult 11.7-mile Gore Lake Trail in Eagles Nest Wilderness, gaining 2614 feet to a pristine alpine lake.

Hike the difficult 13.0-mile Gore Creek Trail to Red Buffalo Pass, gaining 2994 feet in the Eagles Nest Wilderness.