Jul 23, 2018 — A really nice wanna-be loop through a valley near Independence Pass. In order to make this into a full loop, you'd have to walk along the road for a few miles, so this is better done as a shuttle hike (or hitchhike?). I recommend starting at the higher trailhead and going down to the lower one, and not because it's easier. The views along the way as you hike down the valley are really gorgeous, and you'd be missing quite a bit of the appeal of the hike if you start from the bottom.
From the Independence Lake Trailhead, head up a nice trail to the lake, and then continue to the pass overlooking Lost Man Lake. From here, there is a pleasant Class 2 13er called Geissler Mountain East you can bag in order to make this a slightly more difficult day, and to get lots of nice views from the summit. Once back down, continue along the Lost Man Trail past the lake and into the highlight of the route.
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