Colorado State Expedition 2026

Aug 28-Aug 31, 2026 | Ski Cooper TH to Twin Lakes CG, Colorado

Overview

A four-day, three-night backpacking trip.

This challenging route runs about 37 miles from Ski Cooper down to Twin Lakes, tracing a high-elevation line along the Continental Divide before dropping toward the Arkansas River valley. Expect steady rollers with over 5,000 feet of climbing, topping out around 11,700 feet, so altitude and exposure are constant factors. The terrain shifts from alpine ridgelines to forested sections, with big views near the Divide and more sheltered travel as you descend toward Twin Lakes. It’s a long, committing stretch that rewards pacing and discipline, especially with the cumulative elevation gain and loss over the full route. 

Applications

Application Date Window: May 28 - August 20, 2026

Registration Fee: $50 registration fee

Fundraising Opportunity: Raise $100 and earn Expedition swag!

Spots Available: 15 participants

Applicants will be notified of their status starting in May on a rolling basis

Apply Now

At a Glance

Location:

 Central Colorado Rockies (Leadville / Twin Lakes region)

Duration:

4 Days / 3 Nights

Supported backpacking expedition

Group Size:

12-15 participants + 2 Expedition Guides

Distance & Elevation:

~37 miles | ~5,200 ft gain | ~6,400 ft loss | Max Elevation of ~11,700 ft

Terrain:

Alpine ridgeline, exposed tundra, forested singletrack, and dirt trail

Route:

Map of a hiking route called 'State Expedition' with details of distance, elevation gain and difficulty. The map shows trails, lakes, parks, and scenic areas, with the route marked on various terrains.

Expedition Highlights

The Highlights

  • Traverse a scenic section of the Continental Divide with expansive alpine views

  • Experience high-altitude hiking and develop mountain travel skills

  • Camp in remote backcountry environments under dark Colorado skies

  • Build resilience and confidence through a physically demanding route

  • Tight-knit team experience with fellow veterans/community members

  • Finish at the iconic Twin Lakes with a strong sense of earned accomplishment

If you couldn’t join us live, you can now watch the full session. Get an overview of the program, trip details, eligibility, and the application process.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival & Shakedown (Ski Cooper Area)

  • Meet at Ski Cooper Trailhead

  • Gear check, introductions, and safety brief

  • Short acclimation hike and first camp setup

Day 2 – Continental Divide Push

  • Begin main route along the Divide

  • Steady climbing into alpine terrain

  • Long mileage day with exposure and panoramic views

  • Camp along or just below ridgeline

Day 3 – Transition & Descent

  • Continue rolling terrain along the Divide

  • Gradual descent into more protected forest terrain

  • Focus on pacing, recovery, and team movement

  • Camp closer to the Twin Lakes drainage

Day 4 – Final Descent to Twin Lakes

  • Descend into the Arkansas River valley

  • Finish at Twin Lakes Campground

  • Debrief, team closeout, and transportation back

(subject to change) 

Prerequisites & Requirements 

  • Ability to hike 8–12 miles per day with a loaded pack (30–40 lbs)

  • Experience hiking at elevation (8,000+ ft) strongly recommended

  • Prior backpacking experience preferred but not required

  • Strong mental resilience and willingness to operate in a team environment

  • Commitment to preparation (physical training + pre-expedition calls)

Equipment & Logistics 

Equipment & Logistics

Gear: Participants must bring personal backpacking gear (pack, tent or share system, sleep system, clothing layers, etc.)

Meals: Group meals and stoves provided; participants carry personal snacks

Water: Natural sources along route; filtration required (provided or personal)

Campsites: Backcountry dispersed camping (Leave No Trace principles enforced)

Transportation: Shuttle provided from Twin Lakes back to Ski Cooper (or coordinated carpool)

Weather Considerations: Expect variable mountain weather—sun, wind, rain, and potential cold overnight temps

Volunteers from the 2025 RMA expedition have signed on to help with drop-off and pick up. We will coordinate parking in Leadville.

A group of people posing outdoors in a mountainous area with tall peaks covered in greenery and patches of snow in the background. The group appears to be hikers or adventurers, dressed in casual outdoor clothing and smiling at the camera.

Apply and Join the Colorado State Expedition

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A group of six hikers trekking along a narrow mountain trail surrounded by trees and greenery, with a fallen log crossing a small stream in the foreground.
A scenic mountain landscape featuring a lake surrounded by tall pine trees, rugged mountain slopes, and a partly cloudy blue sky.
A woman hiking on a mountain trail with a backpack and trekking poles, surrounded by green vegetation, with a backdrop of mountains, trees, and a partly cloudy sky.
A hiker with a backpack trekking on a mountain trail near a lake, surrounded by green and rocky terrain with a mountain range in the background.
A small mountain stream flowing over rocks surrounded by green shrubs and trees, with taller pine trees in the background under a cloudy sky.