Burning Bear Creek Trail
Trail Difficulty: Easy.
Trail Description:
Burning Bear Trail #602 (east entrance) is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Geneva Creek/Pike National Forest area with verdant meadows, beaver ponds, tumbling water falls and lush forests. Kids and parents will love this one for its beauty and easy terrain. The trail is well-maintained and has a very easy path. It wanders along the side of an open meadow just along the tree line giving you a shaded hike along the creek.
The views you will see through the openings in the trees are beautiful!! You will see the lush meadow, creeks and the snow-capped peaks nearby. You will also see beaver ponds and beaver lodges near the edge of the trail!
You may decide to hike-in for 20 minutes or you may decide to hike-in one hour – however long you decide to make your hike, you will enjoy the hike back just as much as the hike in. Pack your bug spray; you will be near the creek.
No restrooms available at trailhead (last chance is on CR 62 a couple miles before you reach the trailhead).
Picnic spot recommendations:
Fill your backpack with your lunch and settle to eat along the side of the trail anywhere you like. There are a lot of areas where you will be able to see good views of the mountains while you eat.
If you are looking to eat at a picnic table, there is a picnic area within 2 miles of the trailhead (along CR 62 before you reach the trailhaed).
Travel time:
Approximatley 70 minutes from Jct C-470 and Hwy 285
How to get there:
From C-470 and Hwy 285 go south on Hwy 285 about 39 miles to the town of Grant, Co. It is a very small town so look closely for it. At Grant, turn right (west) onto CR-62. Follow CR-62 approximately 5.5 miles. Look for the trailhead as soon as you come to the top of the steep hill with the hairpin turns. The trailhead is directly on your left and the parking area is on the right side of the road. Look for the sign with the trail name here at the edge of the meadow and the gate marking the beginning of the trail.
Special Attractions:
Bailey (along US 285) offers several restaurants and cafes. There is a coffee shop (you will recognize it by the huge coffee cup on the side of the building) that offers Espresso and ice cream. Or, if you are in the mood for an All-American fare, try the world famous “Coney Island” hot dog stand – a fantastic choice for lunch!