Patrick Lienin

Venable to Hermit Pass Loop | Sangre de Cristo Wilderness

August 2019

Excited for a mid-summer adventure in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, I embarked on the Venable Lakes - Hermit Pass Loop. With a late afternoon start and cloudy skies, the promise of a beautiful evening fueled my excitement. As I hiked towards Venable Lakes, the clouds danced overhead, and I was greeted by the serene waters, creating mesmerizing reflections. Setting up camp close to the lake and above the treeline, I immersed myself in the tranquility of the wilderness.

The following day dawned clear and bright as I prepared to continue my journey. Climbing up to Venable Pass, I was rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Connecting with the Riot Alto trail, I ventured further into the wilderness, eventually reaching Hermit Pass at about 13,000 feet. Pausing to catch my breath, I soaked in the awe-inspiring scenery before beginning the descent back to the trailhead, following a long, winding 4WD road.

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