Tag: mountain views

Herman Gulch Trail reaching summit

Herman Gulch Trail

Herman Gulch Trail (TR 98) is a popular 5 mile roundtrip hike just off I-70 before reaching Loveland Ski Area (Exit 218). It is a well-maintained trail that connects to the Continental Divide Trail.

With fantastic mountain and valley views, elevation gain, and many wildflowers, this trail is a very popular area leading to the base of the Continental Divide. Patches of snow often last throughout the summer and wildflowers line the trail and fields.

After starting out on a level jeep trail, the trail then begins to head uphill continuing to Herman Lake – the elevation gain is significant from base to summit (1,600ft gain over a 2.5 mile distance). The gulch area has is all: beautiful streams, cascades, high peaks, valleys and lush meadows surround the trail. Fireweed and marsh lily grow along the wet areas. Coming up out of the woods above treeline, the trail steepens and offers views of the surrounding peaks, sometimes snow covered, as well as the tundra-like fields and flowers. The trail steepens and brings you up to the lake.

The view from the top is fabulous! With Herman Lake (a beautiful glacial lake) and the Continental Divide at your back, it is a crisp and refreshing hike. The tundra has subalpine flowers; take a close look because they grow low to the ground – tiny white and yellow flowers.

Bear Lake Trail

Bear Lake Trail

Bear Lake Views

Rocky Mountain National Park has many, many trails that lead to mountain lakes or ponds. One of the easiest to access is Bear Lake at the northeast end of the park (entering from Estes Park). The trail is an easy .5 mile hike on a flat, natural surface. It leads through the trees along the water’s edge and there are beautiful views of the mountains that flank the lake as well as the mountains that are far in the distance.

Bear Lake Trail

There are a few wooden benches along the path to rest and take in the scenery (also a good spot for a family photo). Cascades of water flow down the hills around the lake as well which are lovely. This is a beautiful area to wander and to relax at the water’s edge.

Bear Lake Trail View from far side

Duck at Bear Lake

This area is extremely crowded during the summer months with the high traffic. It is best to visit this hike early in the morning before the crowds or in the off-season when there are fewer park visitors. The shuttle to the Bear Lake parking lot is a very good alternative to finding your own parking place during summer months.

(Note: Major construction work on Bear Lake Road in 2012 & 2013 includes mandatory use of park shuttles May 29-Oct 9 between 9 am–4 pm, significant delays, and some night closures).

Parking Area at Bear Lake Road

The parking lot also serves as the trailhead of other hikes like, trail(s) to Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake and Lake Haiyaha. Try one of these hikes for a longer trail with a mountain lake. Restrooms available at parking area.

Bear Lake Road Entrance RMNP

Views toward Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain

Berthoud Pass below US 40

Continental Divide Trail at Berthoud Pass

This trail is what anyone would expect from a Colorado hike – views, elevation, cool air, a well-defined path and wildflowers! The Continental Divide Trail at Berthoud Pass is a hike that will take you from the trailhead to above treeline offering spectacular views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Another great feature; it’s less than one hour from Denver!

Continental Divide trail sign

Starting up the Continental Divide trail at Berthoud Pass

Heading up the Continental Divide trail on the fire road

The trail begins to the right of the restrooms where the large sign for the Continental Divide Trail is located. Follow the wide trail to the right until you are on the fire road. The fire road is the first section of the trail that leads uphill through shady, cool woods. There are a few switchbacks as the trail leads up higher and higher.

Continental Divide trail on fire road

views from fire road on Continental Divide trail

Trail junction sign on Continental Divide Trail

The trail is a constant uphill ascent and the high elevation may slow some hikers’ usually-quick pace. Flowers bloom along the entire trail in the low-growing grass; look for Mountain Bistort, Indian Paint Brush, Purple Aster, and Tall Chiming Bells.

The trail narrows from the wide fire road to a narrow packed trail as it passes the junction marked with a mileage sign. Mt Flora is a 2 mile hike one way. Pick your destination; whichever one you choose, you will enjoy a beautiful trail the entire way. Up on top of the ridge the views just never end!

Trail toward Mt. Flora

Continental Divide Trail to Mt Flora

picnic on the Continental Divide Trail overlookinfg Winter Park

Berthoud Pass below US 40

We hiked out about 1/4 mile and stopped alongside the trail for a picnic. This was our destination with the little kids – making it a 2 mile roundtrip hike.

views looking north

hillside views from the trail looking toward Winter Park

Because of the elevation, it’s wise to hike early before afternoon storms roll across the mountains. Lightening danger is very high.
trail looking south
Return trip heading south on Continental Divide Trail

pink Indian Paintbrush flowers along the trail

Empire Colorado Main Street US 40
After descending Berthoud Pass on US Hwy 40, we stopped in Empire for some ice cream and cold drinks. Pick your place, they are all “Mom and Pop” eateries. We chose “Dairy King” and enjoyed the company of other summer travelers.
Dairy King in Empire, CO

glacial lake

Silver Dollar Lake Trail #79

The trail begins at the first parking lot just off Guanella pass road (a new paved parking lot with plenty of spaces provided you get there early)- the first ¼ mile of the hike is a four-wheel drive road that leads to a second parking lot and the trail head.

This quiet hike is a continuous, gentle incline up to the lakes. It begins in an area of lodge pole pine forest, then through some willow scrub and eventually opens up with fewer trees and open hills. The surroundings are breathtaking as you come out above the forested area. The high snow-covered mountain peaks and boulder fields and forest around the lower lake are very beautiful. It can be cool and windy even in mid summer.

If you hike this trail before July, plan on hiking through some snow in shady areas. (We went in June and lost the trail several times because of the snow). One difficulty with this trail is that it is not clearly marked with signs so look for the dirt path and indicators of foot traffic if you lose the trail in the snow.

We chose to hike only to the first lake (Naylor Lake) because of the steep boulder field leading to Silver Dollar Lake. Eating on the top of the hill overlooking Naylor Lake was quite beautiful and refreshing with the sun and the brisk wind. Naylor Lake is private property so look for the signs indicating where the boundry is.

Restrooms only available at nearby campground.

Other hikes nearby that you may enjoy:
Sporting Times Trail
Rosalie Trail
Square Top Lakes Trail
Mt. Bierstadt Trail

10 Fantastic Rocky Mountain Hikes Near Denver - Mary Norton

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mt falcon picnic pavilion with view

Castle Trail and Meadow Trail at Mt. Falcon Park

mt falcon1 trail

Two easy trails from the west entrance of Mt. Falcon Park are Meadow Trail and Castle Trail offering level terrain and views of the mountains as well as the city. One of the best perks of this park is that it is close to Denver just bordering Indian Hills, Colorado (west entry from Hwy 285 to Parmalee Gulch Rd.)

mt falcon park trail

These two trails together offer meadows filled with wildflowers, views of the city and foothills, and plenty of tall Scotch and Ponderosa Pines.

mt falcon park view

The park offers many more trails that are easy to moderate and offer a multitude of views of the mountains and city. See Trail Map.

mt falcon park trails

Castle Trail offers a unique destination of old homestead ruins that once belonged to a wealthy Denverite in the early 1900′s. Kids love to explore the old castle ruins at the end of the hike and enjoy the view of the eastern plains over Denver.

mt falcon trailhead

Our family has visited this park for many years and have always enjoyed its open meadows and pine forests. Pack a picnic and dine at one of the many picnic tables in this mountain setting! Enjoy Your hike or your picnic.

mt falcon picnic pavilion with view

Indian Creek Trail flowers

Indian Creek Trail

Indian Creek Trail Head sign

Nestled in the foothills just 11 miles west of Sedalia, sits this pleasant and surprisingly pretty trail. The south end of the Indian Creek Trail #800 in Pike National Forest offers a three mile loop trail that begins and ends at the Indian Creek Campground.
Indian Creek Trail sign
The trail begins at the south end of the parking lot just past the rest station. But before heading out on the trail be sure to register and pay the day fee for parking ($6) – the National Forest Service has collection boxes at the parking lot where you can pay with cash or check. (We saw a car parked out on CO-67; obviously parking out there allowed them a free day of biking or hiking).
Indian Creek Trail Marker
The trail begins on a gentle incline through pine and aspen trees. It is a well-traveled and well-maintained trail that winds through shady forest up over several ridges. Wildflowers are scattered alongside the trail for the entire 3 miles. Look for redish Indian Paintbrush, pink Wild Rose, yellow Milkweed, pale purple Columbine, and dark purple Larkspur.
Indian Creek Trail
The hike is a moderate climb. Not too steep but enough to bring you up to some wonderful vantage points where the views of the western mountains will surprise you!
Indian Creek Trail 2
Looking west towards the mountains, you will see the Deckers area as well as Devil’s Head to the south. Further south you can glimpse Pikes Peak on a clear day. These views are the big payoff of the hike.
Indian Creek Trail 3

Indian Creek Trail 4

Indian Creek Trail 5
As you continue past the first lookout on the first ridge, you can catch glimpses of the views to the northern mountains as well. Keep looking, you will see several areas where views of the mountains will awe you.
Indian Creek Trail view
After hiking for about 40 minutes (1.6 miles) the trail comes to a junction. It is a busy crossing where we encountered many mountain bikers and horseback riders. You will see signs for the Ringtail Trail to the north and a sign for the Indian Creek Trail #800. Do not continue on the Indian Creek Trail (unless you are planning a 14 mile loop hike out to Roxburough Park). Instead, go right (south) on the fire road. This will take you back to the Indian Creek campground and parking lot to finish this three-mile loop hike.
As you head down to your car, you will enjoy the scenery along the rough fire road as well as the lush grasses and wildflowers. When you reach the campground on your right, cut through it to get back to the parking lot/trailhead where you began.

Indian Creek Trail 6

Indian Creek Trail horses
Indian Creek Trail flowers
Indian Creek Trail flowers 2
Indian Creek Trail trees
Indian Creek Trail road
Indian Creek Trail road 2
Fire road heads south to the Indian Creek campground and trailhead.
Indian Creek Trail flowers 3
Indian Creek Trail butterfly
Indian Creek Trail trees2
Indian Creek Trail parking

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Devil’s Head National Recreation Trail

Devil’s Head Trail begins by passing through several large Aspen stands that are quite beautiful; especially in autumn. The hike continues to wind its way up through Evergreen forest and around huge granite boulders. Through the breaks in the trees you will be able to catch several glimpses of the Eastern plains. The trail is well established and well maintained. It is a popular hike site and sees a lot of traffic.

The trail ends atop a massive granite outcrop where Devil’s Head Fire Tower Lookout is located. It is the last operating fire lookout on the Front Range. The staircase up to the fire tower is steep and not for the faint of heart. You will need to be cautious climbing these 143 steps. From the tower you will have a full 360 degree view of the Rockies and the eastern plains. Absolutely breathtaking!!

The station is manned during the summer months by a National Forest Service Ranger. Kids really enjoy climbing the tower and seeing the ranger at work in his/her post. It is one office that literally sits on top of the world. The trail is open year round, and the tower is accessible during the off-season as well. Devil’s Head Trail and campground (at the trailhead) are very busy during the summer. It is good to arrive early to avoid crowds and the frequent afternoon storms Colorado produces.

Restrooms are available at parking lot/trailhead AND at the base of the fire tower. Picnic spot recommendation:The ideal picnic site for this hike is at the end of the trail (on top of the mountain) at the base of the stairway that leads to the fire tower. There is a picnic table and a pleasant grassy area with huge pine trees – ideal for resting or even a good game of Frisbee.

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Colorado Trail (Segment 6): Kenosha Pass to Goldhill

This section of the Colorado Trail, Kenosha Pass toward Goldhill, is absolutely beautiful with Rocky Mountain views and views of South Park valley area. If you have ever hiked any section of the Colorado Trail, you know that it’s a fun experience to be on a trail that winds 468 miles through beautiful Colorado.

This trailhead is easily accessible by car with parking along the west side of Hwy 285.

The trail begins just off of Hwy 285 at Kenosha Pass campground. From there, the trail leads through pine and aspen forest for about 2 miles until it emerges at the edge of an enormous valley overlooking South Park and Fairplay. The surrounding peaks to the south and west are part of the Mosquito Range.

This is a fantastic section of trail. There are many wildflowers and butterflies in the area and the open trail along the side of the hill allows you to see views overlooking the massive plains and valley below. We usually hike down the side of this south-facing hill and into the woods until we come to a large clearing on the right side of the trail (it looks like a good place to camp and could have been a lake at one time; now all dried up). It’s a good area to rest, take-in the scenery, have a bite to eat and then head back for the parking lot.
No Restrooms available at parking lot.

Other trails in this area you may enjoy: Colorado Trail Kenosha Pass to Long Gulch segment



Picnic recommendation:
Once you come over the hill and see the valley and the Rockies in the distance, use the wooden bench or continue on the trail to the field pictured above (this is our favorite place to stop and then head back to the car; making it a 4-mile round trip hike. The entire segment ending at Goldhill is 32 miles)!

view from Chief mtn

Chief Mountain Trail on Squaw Pass Road

View from trailhead

Burning Bear Trail (TR #601 East Entry)

View from trailhead

Burning Bear Trail #601 (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. Day hikers will love this one for its beauty and easy terrain.The trail is well-maintained and has a very easy/moderate 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 through the openings in the trees are majestic. You will see the lush meadow, creeks and the snow-capped peaks nearby. There are beaver ponds and beaver lodges near the edge of the trail.

Our preference for this trail is to hike to the old cabin and back for an easy/moderate hike of 4.8 miles roundtrip. Another option is to hike the full length of the trail to the west trailhead (5.5 miles; not roundtrip mileage). For a challenging full day hike, make the full 11-mile roundtrip hike from-end-to end and back again (approx. elevation gain for the full hike 1,100ft.) This trail connects to the west entry of Burning Bear Trail. Each end of the trail has a parking area and is accessible by different roads.

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).

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 trailhead).

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Bierstadt Lake Trail (Rocky Mountain National Park)

Rocky Mountain National Park offers so many hiking trails that you will be sure to get on at least one that really has it all!! The Bierstadt Lake trail is uphill to the top (1.2 miles). The gradual uphill climb is a workout, but well worth every switchback.

There are fabulous views all the way. Rocky peaks, Aspen groves, grassy hills, wild flowers and at the end of the trail, a small lake.

The best part of this hike is that the lake is the perfect habitat for moose to hang out. We were fortunate enough to be there at the right time – a female moose was feeding on the grass in the lake. What a treat!!
Restrooms available at trailhead.

The Lake at the end of the trail offers the best picnic area around. Views, water and wildlife!


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Colorado Trail (Segment 5): Kenosha Pass To Long Gulch

This hike is a segment of the Colorado Trail. When you reach Kenosha pass you will need to go to the east side of HWY 285 to park. The trail is located just to the south of the parking lot.
This hike is easy to moderate and offers nice, shady forest, grassy meadows, views of the Rockies and a pleasant climb. The trail is well maintained and heavily traveled. You will enjoy the views over Park County as you gradually ascend this portion of the trail. The wildflowers along the trail vary and are plentiful.

It is a wonderful fall hike – the huge aspen trees tower above the trail in golden colors. It is a pleasant trail that wanders through the forest at a slight uphill grade with wonderful views of the valley looking south toward Fairplay.

We hiked with our kids (all under age 7) for about an hour (approx. 1 mile). This took us to a lookout area with rocks and logs where we had lunch and looked down into the valley and out to the south. It was a beautiful picnic spot.

One thing we noticed was at this time of year, September, there are still a lot of mosquitos and gnats in the area. Be sure to take bug spray with you – it will make your hike a lot more pleasant. Restrooms available at parking lot.

Other hikes in this area you may enjoy Colorado Trail Kenosha Pass to Goldhill segment

Picnic Recommendations: Anywhere along the trail – we like eating where there is a nice view.

Photo courtesy of Tony Parker

Arapaho Pass Trail to Diamond Lake