Burning Bear Creek Trail

Trail Difficulty: Easy.

Trail Description:
Burning Bear Creek Trail 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 meadowjust along the tree line giving you a shaded hike, as well as one that allows you to see the mountain setting around you.

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! And Burning Bear Creek itself will keep you company as it runs beside 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.

Restrooms available within 1/4 mile of trailhead at campground.

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 campground and picnic area within 1/4 mile from the trailhead (you will be able to see it from the trail).

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 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:
If you are the type for good ribs and a cold Guinness on your way home, stop by Fanny May Adams Restaurant along Hwy 285 (between the towns of Shawnee and Glen Isle). This “mom-and-pop” eatery offers some kids’ menu items like chicken fingers and fries and also has sandwiches and brats for larger stomachs.