Easiest route to Blue Lakes for boy with limitations

[epic]

Hello- My apologies that my question isn't strictly around a 14er peak, but I appreciate any help from those that have hiked around Sneffels! I am planning on taking a group of teenage boys to hike to Lower Blue Lakes in late July. A few of us will then ascend Sneffels the next day. Others will remain at Lower Blue Lakes.

One of the boys interested in going to Lower Blue Lakes only has club feet. He can hike, but it is difficult for him. We are looking at various options on how to get him to Lower Blue Lakes, including horseback, carrying all of his gear, even looking at portaging him on a rescue litter on a trail tire (used in search and rescue operations). If he and his father decide that he hikes in, I'm looking for the easiest route. I know Yankee Boy to Lower Blue Lakes would be a bit shorter than going from the Blue Lakes trailhead, but for someone who can't bend their ankle, which would be better/easier?

Also, if anyone knows of anyone in the area that might be willing to rent a horse or be paid to take a 12 year old boy to Blue Lakes, please let me know.

Thanks in advance!!!

[dwoodward13]

Assuming you can get to the upper most parking area (legit 4x4 and experience) Yankee->Blue Lakes is 3.1 miles, 550' gain, 2200' loss. From the standard Blue Lakes its 3.1 miles, 1700' gain. The distance is basically the same.

Also consider the altitude is a much bigger consideration when starting at Yankee Boy since you have to go over a 13,000' pass which is no joke depending on where you are coming from. The terrain is a lot more loose rock and dirt. I could also seeing it spooking a kid as its somewhat exposed on those upper switchbacks as there is a lot of "open air".

[madmattd]

Also consider the altitude is a much bigger consideration when starting at Yankee Boy since you have to go over a 13,000' pass which is no joke depending on where you are coming from. The terrain is a lot more loose rock and dirt. I could also seeing it spooking a kid as its somewhat exposed on those upper switchbacks as there is a lot of "open air".

Those upper switchbacks (at least on the Blue Lakes side, I didn't go on the YBB side) are pretty loose and eroded as of early Oct. 2024. I would not take someone with mobility questions on that stretch of trail.

[two lunches]

this is a super neat idea, but it sounds objectively very difficult to pull off.

my last visit to the area was in 2019 and i recall some creek crossings and terrain that would make a portage annoying to carry and probably not super fun to ride in, either. to that point, it would be a good idea to check with a ranger to confirm you can use anything with wheels on it becuase there are wilderness restrictions in this area. mind you, those restrictions didn't stop people from using drones while i was there, but that doesn't make it legal, regardless of the intent behind your use. in fact, contacting the ranger's office would probably be the best idea in this situation. there should be plenty of local people to bounce ideas off of

Contacts
For questions about or recommendations for planning your next visit to the Mount Sneffels Wilderness, you will need to contact one of the managing offices listed below by phone or email.

Norwood Ranger District
PO BOX 388
1150 FOREST
NORWOOD, CO, 81423
Phone: 970-327-4261

Ouray Ranger District
2505 S TOWNSEND
MONTROSE, CO, 81401
Phone: 970-240-5300

regarding horseback, try reaching out to outfitters in the area to see if anyone can offer a private tour for the weekend. this is unlikely to be a cheap option, but it seems like it's the easiest option for your group if you can find someone to help you out.

good luck and happy trails!

[epic]

Very helpful info. Thank you!

[Scott P]

As far as route choices go, I'd suggest coming in from the Blue Lake Trailhead. The distance is about the same from either trailhead, but the trail from the Blue Lakes Trailhead would be easier to turn back on (if the need arises) and is a little less rugged. I think there is supposed to be a permit system this year though.

[supranihilest]

I second (third? fourth?) doing it from Blue Lakes trailhead. I live in Ridgway and have been up there numerous times from both sides and Scott I think has the most sage advice - if things get bad going up from Blue Lakes trailhead you just turn around and go back downhill. If things get bad going from Yankee Boy you're most likely going to have to go uphill to escape, which is potentially dangerous. I don't know this boy's particular needs so I can't speak to the risk of either route for him, but should something go wrong the consequences are significantly higher from Yankee Boy.

[two lunches]

As far as route choices go, I'd suggest coming in from the Blue Lake Trailhead. The distance is about the same from either trailhead, but the trail from the Blue Lakes Trailhead would be easier to turn back on (if the need arises) and is a little less rugged. I think there is supposed to be a permit system this year though.

Scott i *think* that has been delayed to 2026...

The first phase, expected to start in 2025, involves reconstructing the Blue Lakes Trailhead parking area and installing two new vault restrooms using funding from the Great American Outdoors Act. The Forest Service will also begin developing a monitoring plan and gathering data to establish designated camping areas.

The second phase will involve working with Recreation.gov to develop a permit system for the area. From June 1 through September 30, permits will be required for access with a daily limit of 40 individuals for day-use and 24 individuals for overnight-use (four sites with up to six people per site). The permit system may be implemented as early as 2026. The Forest Service is planning an outreach campaign with partners to inform visitors about the new system before they arrive.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/gmug/new ... PRD1204174

[epic]

Again, thank you, everyone! And I appreciate the thought about if something goes wrong, Blue Lakes TH would be easier to just turn around and head back down, instead of going over the pass.

[IntrepidXJ]

FYI- The Blue Lakes Trailhead will be closed from June 2 through August of this year: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/gmug/newsro ... lakes-area

[Pika2428]

My understanding is the Blue Lakes TRHD & trail will be closed this year until ??? to do much needed parking and trail and camping upgrades.
Best to contact forest service for information.
https://www.reddit.com/r/coloradohikers ... he_entire/