St. Mary’s Glacier is a bit of a hidden gem, so I’ve been a little reticent to share it here. They actually removed the “Glacier” part from the highway sign so fewer people can find it, but I guess I’ve come to terms
with the fact that I’m okay with (potentially) ruining that. It’s definitely a hike you should do once, if not to
say you’ve seen/been on a glacier, than for the spectacular views (although
this is admittedly a common theme in hiking in Colorado).
On the topic of common themes, this was also a heck of a hike for me as a beginner. However,
it is one of many trails that are tough,
but doable. I’m a big believer in taking
as many breaks for water/getting oxygen as you need. The point of hiking is
to enjoy your beautiful surroundings, so why put pressure on yourself to get
done AS FAST AS POSSIBLE. It’s not a
race.
Elevation is always a factor for what to wear while hiking,
but this is particularly true at St. Mary’s. It is WINDY. We went in mid-September, while
it was still quite hot in Denver, and were bundled. As always, dress in plenty of layers and carry a backpack to
carry them as you peel them off on the way down.
Finding St. Mary’s does
require some driving on non-paved roads, which can get a little rough. Take the St. Mary’s exit of off I-70,
after passing through Idaho Springs (which, by the way, is the mother of
all post-hiking lunch options. Hit up Tommy Knocker’s Brewery, BeauJo’s Pizza,
or Smokin Yard BBQ. All are epic). It’s about an hour drive, depending on
traffic.
