Hey guys -- KC organized a great Colorado gathering last year west of Colorado Springs. Is anyone interested in doing it again this year somewhere? It was a good gathering, albeit a little sparsely attended. A lot people expressed regrets about not being able to attend and this would give a second chance.
Thoughts?
Erik
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I'd like to leave the location open - so that whoever decides to organize can scout a good location. We can certainly go back to the same area as last year if that is what people want to do. The access was very good and we had a nice range set up.
These are great opportunities meet great people. Last summer I met a new hunting buddy and we elk hunted together last fall.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I would like to attend and may be able to help with logistics or something depending, of course, on the date.
"Socialism produces bad music, bad art, social stagnation and really unhappy people", “I am a conservative, and you may not like that, but I am.” Frank Zappa 1986
Be fun to go, I had a scheduling conflict last year. There needs to be some real shooting if I were to go though...
All that fake shooting we did last year was annoying... lol
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
As I remember about 50+ said they would attend. Then about a dozen attended. Good group though, but I doubt that 35-40 who said they would be there actually had schedule conflicts, especially sine they had two+ months to clear their schedule.
I was looking forward to meeting more. Don't know if I would go or not this year.
If God wanted you to walk and carry things on your back, He would not have invented stirrups and pack saddles
Weather is also a consideration. Southern Colorado (south of I-70) is generally dryer in the early summer and wet late. Northern Colorado is usually the opposite - wetter in early summer and dry late.
Also - Snow pack is about 130% right now (nobody tell Al Gore) and I can only imagine what it will be after the heavy snow months. That could impact early summer gatherings in some areas.
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 02/14/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
It would be a drive of several hours, but worth it - and only the timimg kept me from joining in last year. The June sched is very heavy here, but sure will participate if the date works.
A. I did have a scheduling conflict since it was the same weekend as the state taxidermy show.
B. by real shooting I mean steel set up long range etc.
I know :-) We had some steel at 400 yards, but it would be great to find a location to push that out to 1,000 yards.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I'd love to come again. I've been working on a couple steel swinger targets and they will come again of course. I'll let dog-catcher walk them out and place them though. More firepower will be riding along with me as well.
"Camping places fix themselves in your mind as if you had spent long periods of your life in them. You will remember a curve of your wagon track in the grass of the plain like the features of a friend." Isak Dinesen
It would be a drive of several hours, but worth it - and only the timimg kept me from joining in last year. The June sched is very heavy here, but sure will participate if the date works.
CCCC:
I'll be at the AZ Rondy and hope to meet you there.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
Last year's was pretty easy to get to near Lake George, but there are so many great areas in Colorado. I've never been out on the Grand Mesa - that could be good because there are a ton of small lakes out there for fishing and is less frequented than places near the Front Range and resort towns.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
A. I did have a scheduling conflict since it was the same weekend as the state taxidermy show.
B. by real shooting I mean steel set up long range etc.
I know :-) We had some steel at 400 yards, but it would be great to find a location to push that out to 1,000 yards.
You can huck rounds twice that far out here... and camping is free. It's less than 2 hrs north of Denver... ain't much fishin' though. Hotels within 30 min (Cheyenne or Wellington)... and prairie dogs after June 15th.
You better pray to the God of Skinny Punks that this wind doesn't pick up......
Is the Pawnee National Grassland near you? Any good places to camp there?
KC
Someone told me a few days ago that the Grasslands had been closed to shooting. Apparently the trash, empty cases, and general screwing up the area was the cause. I've only heard that from one source and have no idea of the truth of the matter.
Someone told me a few days ago that the Grasslands had been closed to shooting. Apparently the trash, empty cases, and general screwing up the area was the cause. I've only heard that from one source and have no idea of the truth of the matter.
Tracks:
You wanna check that out and get back to us please?
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
CCCC: I'll be at the AZ Rondy and hope to meet you there. KC
I'm sure looking forward to meeting you KC. Let's talk about the Colo gathering.
To all: The Grand Mesa is nice, but last time I was up there fishing the mosquitos nearly carried me away. Don't remember which part of summer that was - anyone know about that?. And, if you are thinking about going west or southwest, there are some nice places up above Delores, etc.
1. Last year's site by Lake George. 2. Weld County out in the grasslands. 3. Grand Mesa with a warning about killer mosquitoes
Other possibilities might somewhere in the Gunnison Area, Flattops, maybe somewhere in the San Juans?
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Is the Pawnee National Grassland near you? Any good places to camp there?
KC
Someone told me a few days ago that the Grasslands had been closed to shooting. Apparently the trash, empty cases, and general screwing up the area was the cause. I've only heard that from one source and have no idea of the truth of the matter.
Total bullschitt..... they did close access to a couple square miles off CR 63 and CR96... to accommodate that stupid azz Baker Draw range. They also shut down some shooting south off 96 because it's only about 2-3 miles from Hwy 14.
The remainder is open to any/all shooting provided you're not shooting and leaving garbage. Fabricated steel targets are fine, just no tracers on NFS land.
You better pray to the God of Skinny Punks that this wind doesn't pick up......
Mainly posting so I can check back later. We've camped up on the Grand Mesa several times with the herd. There is plenty of real estate, but not many areas that I know of to accommodate long shooting. About 2 out of every 3 years up there the mosquitoes are brutal. Everyone has their own tolerance level I suppose.
Somewhere more central might be easier for everyone statewide, I'm just not that familiar with the country up around Gunnison or the Flattops.
Lots of good camping and long shooting lanes up on the Uncompahgre plateau. But it's even farther away from the state's center of mass than the grand mesa. The Divide Road country is about 1.5 hours SSW from Grand Jct.
Plenty of long shooting in the BLM land north of GJT. But it's like camping on the moon and hot as blazes in June-July.
With 2 jobs and a houseful of kids, I'm not volunteering to do much besides comment on here. Kind of chickenzhit I know, but I'm just being honest. If it does wind up being somewhere and when I could swing it, I'd love to join up.
There was nothing wrong with the place where we camped last year. It had lots of room and lots of good camp spots sprinkled among the trees, that were not used. It was easily accessed from the county road. We could have accommodated many more people. We could walk over to the "range", which was almost 400 yards. I had a good time and I think everyone else did also. But there was nothing great about the camp spot either. The people who attended made it a lot of fun and I guess in the end, that's what it was all about.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
I agree KC that last year's spot was really good for a large group. For those who weren't there last year, it was located Northwest of Lake George about 40 miles West of Colorado Springs.
The good thing about that area is that it is already scouted. We know what we get there.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Is the Pawnee National Grassland near you? Any good places to camp there?
KC
Technically, in a strict legal sense, it's impractical because you can't drive or park anywhere other than on a county road. Everything outside the road boundaries is closed to motor vehicles.
On another note I've heard all kinds of horror stories about LE in the Grasslands being pricks although I've never had a problem shooting there.
Law Enforcement are dicks everywhere.... especially when they don't know the law. I haven't run into one in over a year.... but I only shoot out there twice a week.
You better pray to the God of Skinny Punks that this wind doesn't pick up......
There was nothing wrong with the place where we camped last year. It had lots of room and lots of good camp spots sprinkled among the trees, that were not used. It was easily accessed from the county road. We could have accommodated many more people. We could walk over to the "range", which was almost 400 yards. I had a good time and I think everyone else did also. But there was nothing great about the camp spot either. The people who attended made it a lot of fun and I guess in the end, that's what it was all about. KC
Sensible, here. The location can be interesting, but the few I have attended were made great by the people.
I would think Granby area would be good. Camping (Williams Fork/National Forest) , hotels,City Market, fishing and a large (free)shooting range are all nearby and in summer it's at 8,000 ft. average high in July is 75 with only 1.5 inches of rain.
ill come down ifi can make it work.....went all the way to New Mexico back in August so Colorado is prolly do able if it works around what i have going on....
A serious student of the "Armchair Safari" always looking for Africa/Asia hunting books
Hey Lost highway -- I'm not as familiar with the Granby area. I have driven through there on motorcycles. I know pine beetles ravaged pretty hard north of I-70. Do you have a specific area for a group camp in mind to consider?
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I would think Granby area would be good. Camping (Williams Fork/National Forest) , hotels,City Market, fishing and a large (free)shooting range are all nearby and in summer it's at 8,000 ft. average high in July is 75 with only 1.5 inches of rain.
I haven't been to that range in a long time, but as I recall it's only 200 yards, unless it's been improved since I was last there.
You didn't use logic or reason to get into this opinion, I cannot use logic or reason to get you out of it.
You cannot over estimate the unimportance of nearly everything. John Maxwell
Hey Lost highway -- I'm not as familiar with the Granby area. I have driven through there on motorcycles. I know pine beetles ravaged pretty hard north of I-70. Do you have a specific area for a group camp in mind to consider?
There are several National Forest campgrounds off Hwy 125, which start about 10 miles up north toward Rand/Walden. I've driven Hwy 125 many times though never turned off any of the N.F. roads. Williams Fork Reservoir (at Parshall) has free camping on the reservoir, fire rings, tables, pit toilets, and a boat ramp. During the week shouldn't be too many people. The area attracts lots of fishermen on weekends. Camped there a few times, can't remember if they have water or not. It's about 3 miles to the Colorado River and 21 miles to Granby. There is a large (free)DOW shooting range directly off Hwy 40, if I recall it is between the Williams Fork turn off and Granby. Nice area with lots of Cottonwoods along the river.
When are y'all wanting to have this get together? I would prefer the high country and would prefer late July/early Aug so I can go look for some big deer
NFS Campgrounds generally don't work for these kind of gatherings. We could have anywhere between 12-50 people and 10-25 rigs, so the area chosen needs to be big enough to handle the upper range, but still be a good set-up if it is on the lower end. Think elk hunting camp on a much bigger scale.
It will need to be scheduled over a weekend (or leading into one).
It needs to be somewhat remote to avoid crowds and a good shooting area needs to be close, ideally in the same vicinity. Even though shooting is completely legal on most federal lands, we are smarter if we choose areas less frequented unless we want unwarranted attention from local Sheriff's department or the NFS officer. Of course, it goes without saying that the shooting area needs to be open, somewhat level and a good backstop.
I think most people want it be in the mountains somewhere. If we go High country in the major ranges, it will have to be July/August due to 130%+ snowpack. If we choose a drier, lower elevation area like the Tarryalls, snow won't be an issue.
If we decide to do it in the same place as last year, I'm happy to help organize it - and KC probably would too, since we scouted this spot last year.
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 02/17/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
hunstsonora - you suggested backside of Guanella Pass.
Does it have the elements listed above: (space, privacy, area for shooting, etc?)
I'm certainly up new country.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
z1R WyColoCowboy KC dogcatcher223 SuburbanHunter CCCC colodog achadwick Dogshooter Tracks northcountry dennisinaz The Yetti huntsonora superdave LostHighway rattler antelope sniper
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 02/17/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Cowboy, I'm interested as well. I'm just not too picky.
Added.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
hunstsonora - you suggested backside of Guanella Pass.
Does it have the elements listed above: (space, privacy, area for shooting, etc?)
I'm certainly up new country.
I think so, I will get you some info on the area. Its Geneva creek road on the backside of Guanella Pass. There are some good camping spots there. When the snow melts we can go check it out. There is a lot of wildlife there. I have seen mountains goats, elk, deer and bear right there. Its a beautiful spot
"When the snow melts" Call Al Gore. This year that could be labor day... lol
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
hunstsonora - you suggested backside of Guanella Pass.
Does it have the elements listed above: (space, privacy, area for shooting, etc?)
I'm certainly up new country.
I think so, I will get you some info on the area. Its Geneva creek road on the backside of Guanella Pass. There are some good camping spots there. When the snow melts we can go check it out. There is a lot of wildlife there. I have seen mountains goats, elk, deer and bear right there. Its a beautiful spot
Yeah, I agree with huntsonora. I looked at it via Google Earth and the Geneva Creek Road (USFS 119), a few miles south of the old Geneva Basin Ski Area, looks good. I'm up for joining you guys on a scouting trip when the snow melts. This place is higher and wetter than last year. Looks like prettier country because the vegetation appears to be more montaine zone. Last year the vegetation was more foothills zone and drier.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
I'd love to explore as well. I have a place up in the Sawatch Range that might be good, but I need to research it before throwing it on the table.
Erik
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 02/18/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I was thinking maybe above Cottonwood Lake or somewhere off the West side of the Divide over Cottonwood Pass.
Another potentially good location is northwest of Kremmling off Hwy 134 over Gore Pass. The terrain there isn't super-extreme, lots of huge parks and not as well traveled in the summer. K_Salonek and I hunted that area for elk last fall.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
wyocolocowboy,will be passing thru colo a couple of times this summer,sure enjoyed the gathering last year, if the dates work out i would like to come again, dont care where you all pick for a location or date. rio7
RIO - that Remington was the talk of the gathering. What a great firearm. Also -- many thanks for the time you spent with my boy teaching him some shooting techniques. Your patience and generosity were much appreciated. You, sir are welcome at my campfire anytime!
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
But seriously, family, work first but I am in beyond those conflicts. The Chafee range or the range in Gunny can be had. It just depends if you want to roll out of bed and shoot like the lake George location or get up and drive to it.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I sent PMs to both Rock Bin and SYSOP about getting this thread stickied days ago... anybody know another mod to ask?
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I am pretty familiar with the Buena Vista/Salida area. I have camped in and around there for years. The biggest issue is finding a suitable place for a big throw-down camping area for a big group. The Sawatch Range is mighty steep. A lot of the land down in the canyons is private, so you gotta get up high. There are some neat places on Cottonwood creek west of Buena Vista, but that is at least 30 minutes from this range. The next drainiage is up towards Mt Princeton and it get really rocky up by St Elmo. There may be an area up there, by Iron City. The next area after that is either up on Antero or on Monarch Pass. All of these will be a drive to that range. There would easily be some good places up on Aspen Ridge East of there, but you have to drive around to get across the Arkansas River - again at least 30 minutes to this range.
With the way the snow is piling up, I'm thinking late June or late July. Stay away from the 4th
Here is the Arkansas River Valley with the Sawatch Range behind.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
There are some places near by the Chaffee range to camp but it will require a drive to shoot there.
How many people and how many trailers last year? I will ask around.
Last year we had a big main tent and thee were probably 12 rigs total and Maybe 6-7 trailers. Hoping for a bigger crowd this year.
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 02/22/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
We don't need one, but if there is a great free range with steel already up, it certainly is worth consideration. Last year we set up a 400 yard range within walking distance of camp and it was great!
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
All added to interested list. Wish Spring were a little closer....
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Other possibilities might somewhere in the Gunnison Area, Flattops, maybe somewhere in the San Juans?
If you do Gunnison or the San Juans can we wait until late July so I can go look for some big ass deer while I'm there?
There is also a great camping spot on the backside of Guanella Pass that could be fun and its only an hour and a half from Denver
I know the Gunnison area pretty good. We could park a hundred camps on BLM land near Antelope Creek and shoot long range until we ran out of ammo. I would love to go there but that would be kind of selfish of me because it's a long way from the I-25 corridor where most people live.
Huntsonora is talking about Geneva Creek. He and I and WyColoCowboy are planning to do some scouting in that area as soon as the snow melts and the mud dries. It would be a lot more convenient for people living on the Front Range.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
That's probably a good target date(s). June gets hard with family vacations, weddings, etc. It also opens up nearly all high country for snow.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
"Camping places fix themselves in your mind as if you had spent long periods of your life in them. You will remember a curve of your wagon track in the grass of the plain like the features of a friend." Isak Dinesen
i would love to attend...keep me in the loop w/ a pm please, somebody ??????
elkivory:
This thread is now sticky. So you can just check in every few days to catch up on the doins or participate in the planning. Everybody's input is welcome.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
I have no clue as to what my schedule is this summer but since I live out here I plan on keeping an eye on this thread and maybe doing a drive-by when this gets going.
An armed member in a country is a citizen, an unarmed member is a subject.
Date is not set in stone yet, so keep checking. We realize that every weekend will result in conflicts. Stay tuned. Snowpack could also be a big factor on date and location. It's getting deep out there.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
We are looking at scouting several locations. There's a lot of snow up there right now, so I'm thinking we'll have to see when we can get out to scout.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Think we are trying to stay within a reasonable range from the Front Range - a couple hours.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I'm taking my daughter's to Europe in June and will return on July 1st. If these dates stick I should be able to make it this time. Hopefully the job doesn't [bleep] me up again this year. Put me on the interested list again.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Okay. Then consider us there...unless something else takes priority, like summer school or such. Even then, part of my girls will be there. It has been a long while since I have been to one, however the girls will enjoy seeing all the campfire folks. The girls (including me) miss all of it. Sheila
Action speaks louder than words but not nearly as often. Mark Twain
We have had three weeks to consider the proposed dates and everyone seems to be OK with July 18, 19 & 20. No major conflicts that I'm aware of. So let's make that the date for the gathering.
Now everyone can start planning on a hard date.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
If you can do all three days, that's great, but don't let that stop you from coming. Some will come for just one day, others for all three.
Personally, I'll be doing the second two days for sure and hopefully Friday night as well depending on the final chosen location.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Not yet. We're waiting for the snow to melt to do some scouting. Huntsonora has proposed Geneva Creek just south of the old Geneva Basin Ski Area. Looks good on Google Earth. WyColoCowboy and K_Salonek have proposed another location where they hunted last fall. Both locations are close to the Front Range. We'll check out both locations and put up some photos and details for everyone to ponder.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
This whole area is a series of beautiful valleys with good water, both North and south of hwy 134. The area just south of 134 along Rock Creek looks good also, but would need to be scouted.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Looks like a good spot. Real pretty. Are there any brookies in those ponds? Farther away from the Front Range than Geneva Creek but maybe just as easy to get to.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
Just another point of info. From the GPS spot on the link you provided, the FS road that goes west and then northwest is closed, so that whole area west is blocked off from vehicles. There is TONS of firewood so no need to haul it in like we did at Lake George.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Yeah - some are more recent from pine beetle salvage work.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
It is a cool area. We shared our elk camp there last fall with a giant bull moose. He hung out down in the willows along the creek.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
1. Northwest of Lake George in Pike National Forest (Same site as last year)
2. Backside of Guannella Pass (near old Geneva Basin Ski Area)
3. Northwest of Kremmling off Hwy 134.
Here's a map with the three areas:
The weather is supposed to be gorgeous this weekend. I know sites #1 and #3 very well, but never been to #2. So, I'm thinking about burning a tank of gas and heading up towards Guanella Pass if that road is open yet.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I would also like to see site #2 and would like to accompany you. But I'm booked for a morning day hike on Saturday and dinner with friends on Sunday at 5:30. What does your schedule look like? Any way to squeeze a trip in on Sunday morning?
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
KC - My internet was down at the house this weekend, so I didn't see you post. I didn't go out to scout, but I did get some range time in with my son, though. Next weekend is packed, but maybe the weekend of the 17th?
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I'll meet you guys up there the 17th and show y'all the spot I was thinking about. It's close to Guanella and you can glass moose, goats, sheep, deer and elk and Mount Bierstadt is a beautiful hike that's not too difficult and it's right there too.
Mount Bierstadt is a beautiful hike that's not too difficult and it's right there too.
huntsonora:
What a misleading statement. Yes, Mt Bierdstadt is beautiful, it is close to Guanella Pass and it's an easy day-hike to the summit. But you have to go through the infamous willows on the way. I've climbed it three times when I was younger. I must have been out of my mind. BTW that's also a good place to hunt ptarmigan.
I'll meet you in the parking lot at the Pass at 09:00AM on the 17th.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
I'm going to try to work out so I can go on this day as well. I'm interested in seeing the area. I'm a little concerned about recreational use in the area - there seem to be a lot of parking areas and the sat photos show a lot of cars in parking lots. I'd love to get into a more alpine setting than last year and have the opportunity to do a little fishing as well.
huntsonora - Where exactly is the area you are targeting?
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I'm going to try to work out so I can go on this day as well. I'm interested in seeing the area. I'm a little concerned about recreational use in the area - there seem to be a lot of parking areas and the sat photos show a lot of cars in parking lots. I'd love to get into a more alpine setting than last year and have the opportunity to do a little fishing as well.
huntsonora - Where exactly is the area you are targeting?
Its on the backside of Guanella Pass down on Geneva Creek and its a beautiful campsite in an alpine setting. You'll like it. Guanella is a 20 minute drive or so from there
Mount Bierstadt is a beautiful hike that's not too difficult and it's right there too.
huntsonora:
What a misleading statement. Yes, Mt Bierdstadt is beautiful, it is close to Guanella Pass and it's an easy day-hike to the summit. But you have to go through the infamous willows on the way. I've climbed it three times when I was younger. I must have been out of my mind. BTW that's also a good place to hunt ptarmigan.
I'll meet you in the parking lot at the Pass at 09:00AM on the 17th.
I'm not gonna make it this weekend. A buddy just gifted me two tickets behind the dugout for Saturday's Rockies game. I look forward to hearing what you guys find.
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 05/12/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I'm not gonna make it this weekend. A buddy just gifted me two tickets behind the dugout for Saturday's Rockies game. I look forward to hearing what you guys find.
Yeah, I would jump on those tickets too. Sorry you can't make it. Huntsonora and I will take some photos and post them for everyone to see.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
Today I drove up to Geneva Creek. That's the area that huntsonora suggested. The pass was closed so huntsonora couldn't make it from the north. I drove up from the south. BTW I haven't bothered to set the calendar on my camera so don't let the dates confuse you.
Saw some buffalo along the way.
The mountains were glorious.
This is the first view that you see of the area.
There's a forest service corral open to the public. So it's convenient to bring horses or mules.
There are a couple dozen good camping spots that generally resemble this one.
Another representative example of the camping spots.
This a beautiful area just like huntsonora said. It would be great to hold the gathering there. However, it has advantages and disadvantages. It's pretty accessible. Drive I-70 to Georgetown and then south up over Guanella Pass. Then continue south about four miles to Geneva Creek. Pretty good roads all the way. There's a nice creek there and a 4x4 road that goes way up into the valley to an old mine.
The disadvantage of this spot is that we won't have it to ourselves. There were already three camps setup for the weekend. We could definitely count on there being others campers competing for spots and they might also get upset if we setup a range and started shooting.
I still want to check out the spot that WyColoCowboy suggested.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
I am hoping/looking forward to coming up this summer - have never been to one of your CO gatherings and do not want to barge in with presumptuous "info". Should posit, however, that the several Campfire meets we have enjoyed big time had zero neighbors to be concerned about (no neighbors to be concerned about us!) and so the shooting, cameraderie, etc. went down easily and enjoyably.
KC -- Thanks for going up, and after the Rockies piss-poor performance yesterday, I chose poorly... lol
That does look like a beautiful area, but I share your concern about traffic and activity in the area. When you look at Satellite photos all the parking areas are full of cars.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
KC -- Thanks for going up, and after the Rockies piss-poor performance yesterday, I chose poorly... lol
That does look like a beautiful area, but I share your concern about traffic and activity in the area. When you look at Satellite photos all the parking areas are full of cars.
That parking areas on the pass are 20+ minute drive from the camping area but there will be others camping in those campgrounds I'm sure.
Glad you made it up KC! Sorry I couldn't meet you there and looking forward to what else y'all find
KC -- Thanks for going up, and after the Rockies piss-poor performance yesterday, I chose poorly... lol
That does look like a beautiful area, but I share your concern about traffic and activity in the area. When you look at Satellite photos all the parking areas are full of cars.
That parking areas on the pass are 20+ minute drive from the camping area but there will be others camping in those campgrounds I'm sure.
Glad you made it up KC! Sorry I couldn't meet you there and looking forward to what else y'all find
Gotta admit -- I'm a lot jealous about KC going backpacking for a week... I need some of that...
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I'm back, but only for a short while. I'm going to hike the Rainbow Trail from Poncha Pass to the Medano Pass Road, 83 miles, 14 nights. I'm breaking it up into three trips. You think that might take some of the weight off of my belly????
We still need to settle on an area for the gathering. I think Geneva Creek, even though it's a real pretty place, is out because there will be too many other people.
We could go to the same spot as last year. There was nothing wrong with that spot, just not as pretty as some. Might be prettier this year with all the snow and rain. Man everything is green wherever I go.
Or we could go to the spot that WyColoCowboy suggested. Can we get some current photos of the area? Maybe GPS coordinates so we can look on Google Earth?
I'll be leaving tomorrow afternoon and won't be back for about three weeks.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
I think that KSalonek has pics of the area from our elk hunt last fall. I'll see if he can post some.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
This exact spot doesn't have to be it. Lots of areas around it where there is space.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Copy and paste this into the Google Earth Search bar:
40� 8'14.22"N 106�36'18.64"W
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I really like the looks of that spot. Not too far to go for the Denver people or guys north of there. A little farther than last year for us guys in Colorado Springs. But it looks like prettier country. So it's worth the travel time. The USGS map shows a Rock Creek and some beaver ponds.
Is all that light green stuff willows or grass?
What's your guess regarding other campers?
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
One place I want to go check out is that area south of Hwy 134 & just West of Rock Creek State Wildlife Area. There is great fishing in there and some good sites (on Google Earth) for a group camp. There are some clear cuts nearby for firewood and water in the creek below. (If you click on the picture, it will take you to photobucket where you can zoom in on the picture.
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 05/29/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I'm stuck in town the next two weekends with home projects, but if anyone wants to volunteer to check the area out, please do.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
Is the Pawnee National Grassland near you? Any good places to camp there?
KC
Technically, in a strict legal sense, it's impractical because you can't drive or park anywhere other than on a county road. Everything outside the road boundaries is closed to motor vehicles.
On another note I've heard all kinds of horror stories about LE in the Grasslands being pricks although I've never had a problem shooting there.
A solution to a road block like this is the use of horses to transport shooters to the range area. Surely there are plenty of horse ranchers who could supply the animals required to "train" all interested shooters to and from the range. Easy logistical solution IMHBAO.
"All that the South has ever desired was that the Union, as established by our forefathers, should be preserved, and that the government, as originally organized, should be administered in purity and truth." – Robert E. Lee
z1R WyColoCowboy KC dogcatcher223 SuburbanHunter CCCC colodog achadwick Dogshooter Tracks northcountry dennisinaz The Yetti huntsonora superdave LostHighway rattler antelope sniper
Add OrangeOkie and wifey, plus 2 guests
"All that the South has ever desired was that the Union, as established by our forefathers, should be preserved, and that the government, as originally organized, should be administered in purity and truth." – Robert E. Lee
Sounds great OrangeOkie! I'm an OKC native, but I claim Wyoming. All my family lives somewhere in the Panhandle state.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
No worries - all are welcome and I will compile a more recent and accurate list of interest as soon as we finalize the site.
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 05/30/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I might be persuaded to bring one along, shoot me a PM a day or two before as a reminder!
"Camping places fix themselves in your mind as if you had spent long periods of your life in them. You will remember a curve of your wagon track in the grass of the plain like the features of a friend." Isak Dinesen
I've been popping in and out and will continue to do that for a most of the summer. Trying to drop some weight by staying in the mountains and avoiding the pantry and frig. So far it seems to be working. Just got back from a short camping trip with Mrs. KC. I tried to get to the GPS coordinates on High Rock Creek yesterday. Too much snow to pull a travel trailer. I hope someone gets up there soon so we can decide if that's the spot.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
Are you the person that setup the prairie dog shoot at the Lake Roosevelt gathering? If so, could you set it up again at this get-together? That was fun.
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
I'm working on heading up there this weekend. Just going to pack a tent, a sleeping bag, some chow, a fishing pole and a camera.
Jealous of all your backpacking KC -- I put on about 15 pounds this winter and my pants are fitting a little snug...
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
CCCC:Are you the person that setup the prairie dog shoot at the Lake Roosevelt gathering? If so, could you set it up again at this get-together? That was fun. KC
Hi KC - nothing to be proud about even though I did "invent" that version a while back. It is simple, and fun. Will be pleased to bring the stuff and set up the scheme - would prefer that someone else (maybe a non-participant?) run the actual shooting as I would like to shoot too.
Looking for area with trees plus open spaces. I think trees are a given.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
The weather didn't cooperate so I didn't head up this weekend. Too much rain all over. I'm now planning for next weekend heading up Saturday afternoon. Hoping for better weather...
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I just got back about an hour ago and found what I think is a great spot for a camp. Lots a shelter from trees, plenty of room, a range within 500 yards and water nearby - good fishing, too!
I'm going to have a quick PM with KC and K_Salonek and get this nailed down. Watch for final posting of location soon!
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 06/15/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
I like that spot. Lots of green meadows, trees and creeks. Lots of good places to camp and a good spot for a range that's pretty close to the camp. There might be some brookies in those ponds and maybe some rainbows in Little Rock Creek.
Easy to access from I-70, either via Hwy 9 to Hwy 134 or from Wolcott via Hwy 131 to Hwy 134. We'll have to put up some signs at the USFS roads.
I could get up there early and setup my trailer and maybe another tent or two to hold the spots.
Have you had feedback from K_salonek yet?
KC
Wind in my hair, Sun on my face, I gazed at the wide open spaces, And I was at home.
Okay - We have a location! (Click on any of these pictures to open larger in Photobucket)
I went up Saturday and Sunday and found a great spot. Large camp under trees and lots of space, shade, grass and wood. Water is nearby and a good range about 500 yards from the main camp.
GPS is 40.049558, -106.661176
2.1 miles from HWY 134 on FR 225 (via FS260) (click pictures to open larger in Photobucket)
In relation to I-70:
Topo with highlighted roads from Hwy 134:
Zoom of area. Rock Creek is on the right of photo.
Here's the camp:
View from road (Camp under the trees)
Big 5 foot fire ring with lots of adjacent space to set up a kitchen tent and another large tent near the ring
Lots of spread out space - room for 20+ rigs all with shelter and level.
You can see the range where my camper is easy 500 yard drive. We'd need to set up a "Placeholder tent" up there to keep anyone from camping there.
Last edited by WyColoCowboy; 06/16/14.
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
The site is about 1/2 mile from Rock Creek -- Good fishing. Here's the view from about 100 yards from camp.
Meadow below camp with springs:
"And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
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