Calling all nature lovers, imagine this: your alarm is blaring louder than a rock concert, but you’re not hitting snooze today. Loveland Pass is calling, and it’s time to chase that sunrise. We promise you, the early wake-up is about to become your favorite decision – you won’t want to miss this!
You know how they say timing is everything? Well, when it comes to catching a sunrise from Cupid or Grizzly Peak at Loveland Pass, it’s practically an art form. Plan to be there a solid 1.5 hours early for Cupid, and if Grizzly is your target, make it a generous 2.5-3 hours. Trust me; the early bird gets the best views.
Nestled at 11,990 feet, Loveland Pass is like the VIP lounge of mountain passes. Parking might play hard to get, but considering the breathtaking scenery awaiting you, a little parking shuffle is a small price to pay. There is a parking lot at the trailhead of Sniktau Trail which during summer months can get full quickly, but you shouldn’t face any challenges finding parking for a sunrise hike.
Pro tip: Don’t forget your trusty headlamp. The trail kicks off in the dark, so the stars will keep your eyes busy until the sun comes up and reveals the mountains.
Now, let’s talk about the main event – the hike itself.
Snkitau Trail is a 5.6-mile (9-km) round trip, a journey that unfolds like a carefully crafted story. The trail doesn’t waste any time; it starts with a steep section that gets your heart pumping for about half a mile. Once you’re through the tough part, you’ll come to a crossroads – Left for Mount Sniktau (13,219ft) or Right for Cupid Peak. After taking a right, the trail levels out before a slow and steady climb to Cupid at 13,117 feet.
Here you can either choose to relax and take in the view from Cupid, or you can keep trucking along to Grizzly Peak. If you decide to hang out at the top of Cupid, there is a bed of large rocks that can provide a seat and backrest as you wait for the sun to break the horizon. You can also see Grizzly Peak to the southeast of Cupid Peak, as well as Torreys and Grays to the east of Grizzly.
If Cupid Peak isn’t your final stop, it’s time for the Grizzly Peak Rollecoaster. As you descend from Cupid, the trail begins to present its obstacle courses. The trail can be easy to follow in the Summer, but in the Winter, the snow can prove to be quite a challenge. If you’re struggling to find the trail, look ahead for a hill covered with massive rocks – there is a trail to the left of the rocks that will also take you to Grizzly Peak.
When you’ve gone around the trail and the rock hill is behind you, you’ll come upon the next hill you have to get over so that you can face the final boss – Grizzly Peak. Before you begin your ascent, make sure to recharge, have a snack, and get hydrated!
Pro tip: Bring a poncho – not only for the rain but also as a privacy cover as there are very few places to “go to the bathroom” on this trail.
As you make your way up, you’ll find yourself navigating rocky paths and traversing a boulder field that adds an extra layer of adventure to the journey. If it’s the right season, consider packing spikes for your shoes – your future self will thank you. Near the summit, the trail will surprise you with a tighter path. But let me assure you, every challenging step is a step closer to a view that will leave you in awe.
Once you conquer Grizzly Peak, you’ll be standing at a staggering 13,334 feet. The views from here are nothing short of spectacular. Torreys and Grays Peaks make a grand appearance, and you can see for miles in every direction. It’s a view that makes the whole ascent worthwhile.
Now, here’s the beauty of it: whether Grizzly Peak marks the pinnacle of your journey or just a mid-way point, the choice is entirely yours. You can choose to head back down Grizzly, go east to Torreys and Grays, or continue heading south to Arapahoe Basin.
Sure, it might mean an early wake-up call, but trust me, every moment of that early morning adventure is worth it. The stars, the sunrise, the breathtaking views – it’s nature’s way of reminding you that the best moments often happen when you step out of your comfort zone. So, lace up those hiking boots, grab your headlamp, and let Loveland Pass work its magic.
