2012_08_27 with Pam and Nanette

The lower eastern section of the Buchanan Pass Trail leads hikers through the Indian Peaks' biologically diverse upper-montane ecosystem. Minimal elevation gains and level footing in a luxuriant forest and streamside setting:

The trail is quickly absorbed by a tall, crowded forest filled by aspen, hanging mosses, thick ground vegetation, and large boulders. The creek is generally accessible throughout (audible when not immediately visible), with many eddies and nooks suitable for fishing or a private respite.

Conditions, scenery and difficulty vary little over the first 1.5 miles; in 1.75 miles the trail climbs more assertively to Timberline Falls (2.2 miles : 9,223'), a deep, staged gorge capped by immense boulders accessible from the trail. The falls' energetic chutes can be surveyed from above, or more intimately from two steep social trails - fore and aft - leading down to them.

Round-Trip Length: 4.0 miles
Start-End Elevation: 8,755' - 9,330'
Elevation Change: +575' net elevation gain
Skill Level: Easy

More Info: http://www.protrails.com/trails/view/116/indian_peaks_wilderness_area_and_james_peak_wilderness_area/buchanan_pass_trail