Backpacking the Rocky Mountains and Soaking in Conundrum Hot Springs

My first backpacking trip, in the Elk Mountains near Aspen...in which I get my butt kicked, bail on the backpacking trip after the second day, and opt for a day hike to Conundrum Hot Spring instead. I thought it would be easier.....HOW WRONG I WAS!
My friend Adam and I hiked to Conundrum (said to be the highest elevation hot springs in North America at 11,200') via the back route, over Triangle Pass from Gothic...which is about 10 BRUTAL miles each way, over a 13,000' pass! To make matters worse, a storm was blowing in, so we were only able to soak for 20 minutes before heading back -- and even then we narrowly escaped getting struck by lightning!
It is possible to backpack up to Conundrum and camp overnight; at the time I vowed I'd never backpack again, but now that I'm rested up a bit I feel I might actually try it sometime...but from the Aspen side next time. Triangle Pass was just TOO BURLY to be lugging a tent and stuff on your back!!!

[christurgeon]

Great quality video. Almost felt like I was there. But those of you that have never hiked a day in your life...it is SO awesome to be in that much nature! Nothing like it!

[cassroberts]

You are fearless and breathless in this adventure!! Rough but you did it! Wow!

[danielhoover]

Your free spirit brings back so many memories. Before Telluride, CO was infiltrated by yuppies and rich wannabe artists, you were the average person there. We swam nude in ALL the numerous ponds, no matter how cold they were. I'm 72 now and miss free and open people like you.

[Mootsbike]

You’ll be in the best shape of your life when you get back. One of your best videos ever. Love to see some greenery for a change.

[andrewpettola]

Another amazing video! Thank you for the beautiful scenery. I would NEVER be able to do that!

[jonmacdonald]

Thank you Always for Sharing Your Explorations and Adventures with us All!

[mortonmonte]

who doesn't love hiking in the high country of Colorado....it is amazing. Thanks for sharing!

[Katseye]

❤️❤️❤️ just beautiful! Look at the scenery! Wow!

[Starfish]

Wonder Hussey spends so much time out in the sun in tank tops I’m amazed at her skin looking so young and not wrinkled

[jeffallen]

We have hiked to the springs from both sides.. Always worth it and we will be back! Great little video!!

[Byrod]

Thank you for your videos, you are my favorite American ! I would never see those places without you. Your comments are entertaining too.

[davesysygy]

Your enthusiasm is infectious, much like the hot springs.

[markshietze]

Too cool 😎 ! !
Yer the toughest, most wonderfullest...
Purty sceneries and great videos, Wonder 😍🤩😃😇

[BayAreaHiker]

That is one hell of a introduction to backpacking!!!! Your awesome! Cheers

[oldiesbutgoodies]

Just fabulous video! The vistas are so beautiful. Good job WH!!

[leehurley]

That was incredible. I really admire you for doing that amazing hike. It was beautiful.

[randyhayden]

Another great narrated video. Thank you.

[scoppin]

How beautiful that looked, Great video Sarah. x

[jonwebb]

Congrats. Now you are a real backpacker! You probably came south. In the 70s a friend and I came from Crested Butte to the south, and over Conundrum Pass at 12-13, 000 ft, then down to the hot springs where there were naked folks from all over the world. Paradise!

[proteusnz]

Still beautiful places in the world. Thank you ❤👍