After a successful summit of Mount Oklahoma the day before I car camped then drove to the trailhead for Mount Hope. A little woozy and stiff from the day prior I made a slow ascent up the steep trail.

Gerry Roach did not lie about the first 100 feet of this trail. It is steep and relentless uphill. I was light in terms of backpack weight in comparison to all the thru hikers I passed on the Colorado Trail.

‍ Once out of the treeline the entire trail to Hope Pass is visible and obvious. Several switchbacks up a well maintained trail lead to the saddle. Once at the saddle route finding on Hope is a bit challenging and slow going as you choose the path of least resistance. 

‍ I enjoyed the summit views and a snack before heading down. The descent over the talus wasn’t enjoyable but once I was back at the saddle I cruised down the Colorado trail back to the car.

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Buena Vista is quite possibly my favorite mountain town in the Sawatch range. The people, the culture and the vibe are all excellent. I always make a point to stop in BV, usually Eddyline is my favorite brewery in Colorado. Highly recommend stopping or staying in Buena Vista.

Local spots: Simple Eatery & Spoon It Up, House Rock Kitchen, Eddyline Brewing.