Lake Helene is a small, shallow lake below a rocky amphitheather formed by Notchtop and Flattop mountains. It has great views of Notchtop and surrounding peaks. We will begin the trip from Bear Lake trailhead and follow the Flattop Mountain trail to the junction with the Fern-Odessa Trail. We will continue on the Fern-Odessa trail as it climbs steadily through the forest along the northern flank of Flattop Mountain. When we the intersection of Mills Creek, we will leave the trail and continue off-trail making our way to Two Rivers Lake where we will cross the lake and continue off-trail to Lake Helene. It can be very windy at Two Rivers and Lake Helene, so we will probably have lunch in the trees between the 2 lakes. After we 'tag' Lake Helene, we will retrace our track track back to the Bear Lake trailhead.
For those that would like to begin the trip on microspikes, you should be OK. However, snowshoes will be REQUIRED as we gain elevation. So you must have a way to attach snowshoes to your pack. Simply carrying them in your hand will no be an option.
As mentioned earlier, it can be windy along the trail, so be prepared with a shell, face covering, over mitts, goggles or sunglasses, etc. to protect yourself from the wind.
Though not required, poles are recommended. They will be especially handy when traveling off trail.
Further detail about meet up, etc. will be sent couple days prior to the trip date.
Please note, non Northern Colorado members will be put on a wait list for the first 2 weeks to allow Northern Colorado members to sign up for the trip.