Irving Hale Divide Professional Review and Guide

"The Irving Hale Divide hike passes from the trail branching to Watanga Lake (Hike34) over the ridge between Roaring Fork and Hell Canyon. Whatever the references to Hell on the initial climb from the trailhead or while puffing and panting up the right fork from the Watanga Lake Trail split in the valley containing Roaring Fork, colorful wildflower species far exceed infernal puns as hikers gasp to the broad saddle below Mount Irving Hale. Once on the Divide, the trail descends slightly through fields of glacier lilies fed by deep snow banks melting in June.

A fine view of the Continental Divide to the east rises above the flowers. At the top of Irving Hale Divide, satisfied hikers rejoice in the floral wonder and retrace the steep slope down the Roaring Fork Trail back to their cars, which is easier than descending into Hell Canyon."

--Kent Dannen, Best Hikes Colorado's Indian Peaks Wilderness (Falcon Guides).