sacarson

We went to the Broadmoor for a 4-day weekend in October 2008. What a treat! To say it is a beautiful resort does not do it justice. The setting is amazing and the historical building and rooms are really cool (our room was in the original building). There really is something for everyone here… horseback riding, shopping, yoga, golf, spa, even fireplaces perfect for sipping tea and reading a book near. The staff is knowledgeable and incredibly friendly. Every detail has been thought of. I don’t think I have ever been somewhere that I enjoyed so much and can’t think of a single complaint or disappointment. We had a great weekend.

A great place for camping is the Junction campground at Tioga Pass. There are not a lot of spots (15 or so?), and it is first come first serve, but the camp spots are pretty private. Many great hiking trails start from the camp ground and there is a stream (with fish) that runs through it. Even in July the weather is cool (60s in the day) and because of the elevation, there are few bugs/mosquitos, which can be a problem lower down the mountain. Water is available at the campground.

We went on the Fourth of July 2006 and spent the holiday hiking along the trails above the campground. We must have hiked for 6-7 hours and did not see a single other person. The views are fantastic, there is a glacier, abandoned mine, and lakes and streams along the way. The trails are not very difficult and easy for dogs and anyone in decent shape. It was truly a perfect day in the mountains and a hike that we have done several times since.

If you continue on the road next to the camp ground, you can reach Saddlebag lake. The map says it is only a 2-1/4 mile hike… uphill. It is harder than it looks, but doable. Saddlebag lake has fishing both on the shore and a place to rent small boats for an hourly rate.

Tioga Pass is a great place to camp.