Black Canyon of the Gunnison N.P. (8,500′)

Black Canyon of the Gunnison N.P. (8,500′)

by | Aug 23, 2022 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports

Black Canyon of the Gunnison N.P. (8,500′)

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison park contains 12 miles (19 km) of the 48-mile (77 km) long Black Canyon of the Gunnison River. The national park contains the deepest and most dramatic section of the canyon. The canyon’s name comes from the long shadows, where portions of the gorge only receive 1/2 hr of sunlight a day.

The park has a north and south rim, with the south rim being the most popular. The South Rim Road runs along the edge of the the canyon, being a little over 8 miles long with 12 viewpoints. The viewpoints showcase some of the world’s oldest exposed rock, Precambrian or “basement” rock that is nearly 2 billion years old.

Intresting stats:
Painted Wall – 2,250′ – tallest cliff in Colorado
The Narrows – 40′ wide
Chasm View – narrowest point on the rim – 1,100′ wide
Warner Point – deepest point – 2,722′

Dogs are allowed in the park at all the overlooks. However, the canyon below the rim is designated a wilderness area, where dogs are not allowed. 

Trail Stats

Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Elevation Map Pancake Rocks

Trail Pictures

South Rim entrance

South Rim entrance

South Rim entrance

A weather tested Juniper near the rim

A weather tested Juniper near the rim

A weather tested Juniper near the rim

Cedar Point Overlook

Cedar Point Overlook

Cedar Point Overlook

View of the Gunnison River from Cedar Point overlook

View of the Gunnison River from Cedar Point overlook

View of the Gunnison River from Cedar Point overlook

Rim Rock trail

Rim Rock trail

Rim Rock trail

The park contains 12 miles of the 48 mile canyon

The park contains 12 miles of the 48 mile canyon

The park contains 12 miles of the 48 mile canyon

Typical trail conditions to the overlooks

Typical trail conditions to the overlooks

Typical trail conditions to the overlooks

Only 30 minutes of sunlight reach parts of the inner canyon

Only 30 minutes of sunlight reach parts of the inner canyon

Only 30 minutes of sunlight reach parts of the inner canyon

Sunset View Overlook

Sunset View Overlook

Sunset View Overlook

View near High Point overlook

View near High Point overlook

View near High Point overlook

Painted Wall overlook view

Painted Wall overlook view

Painted Wall overlook view

Close up of the Painted Wall

Close up of the Painted Wall

Close up of the Painted Wall

Gunnison River from Painted View overlook

Gunnison River from Painted View overlook

Gunnison River from Painted View overlook

View from the Tomichi Point area

View from the Tomichi Point area

View from the Tomichi Point area

At it's most narrow point, the canyon is only 40" wide at the bottom

At it’s most narrow point, the canyon is only 40″ wide at the bottom

At it’s most narrow point, the canyon is only 40″ wide at the bottom

Over 2,500' straight down

Over 2,500′ straight down

Over 2,500′ straight down

View of the North Rim

View of the North Rim

View of the North Rim

Some of the rock in the canyon is over 2 billion years old

Some of the rock in the canyon is over 2 billion years old

Some of the rock in the canyon is over 2 billion years old

There are no trails to the bottom, only suggested routes

There are no trails to the bottom, only suggested routes

There are no trails to the bottom, only suggested routes

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is an International Dark Sky Park

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is an International Dark Sky Park

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is an International Dark Sky Park

Gunnison Point next to the South Rim visitors center

Gunnison Point next to the South Rim visitors center

Gunnison Point next to the South Rim visitors center

View of the canyon as it winds its way to the southeast

View of the canyon as it winds its way to the southeast

View of the canyon as it winds its way to the southeast

GPX with Elevation

Video Tour

Trail Directions

There are two primary entrances to the park: the south rim entrance is located 15 miles (24 km) east of Montrose, while the north rim entrance is 11 miles (18 km) south of Crawford and is closed in the winter. The park contains 12 miles (19 km) of the 48-mile (77 km) long Black Canyon of the Gunnison River. The national park itself contains the deepest and most dramatic section of the canyon, but the canyon continues upstream into Curecanti National Recreation Area and downstream into Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area.

Trailhead Directions

Weather

Lower Fish Creek Falls (7,420′), Park Range

Lower Fish Creek Falls (7,420′), Park Range

by | May 22, 2022 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Park Range, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports

Lower Fish Creek Falls (7,420′), Park Range

Lower Fish Creek Falls is a 283′ waterfall located about 5 miles to the east of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. There are two trails which provide great views of the falls. First is the Overlook, a 1/4 mile handicapped-friendly accessible trail, which is relatively flat. The second trail, a National Recreation Trail ​, is also 1/4 mile long but drops 100′ down to a foot bridge at the base of the falls.

Another destination worth exploring is a 1/2 hour south of Steamboat Springs. Outside the town of Yampa, lies the eastern end of the Flat Top Scenic Byway. The Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway (County Road 8), runs through the northern portion of the Flat Tops Wilderness.

Trail Stats

Lower Fish Creek Falls
  • Trailhead: Fish Creek Falls National Recreation Trail
  • Round trip: .5 miles / .8 km
  • Elevation: 7,520′ – 7,420′ / 2,292 m – 2,262 m
  • County: Routt
  • Nat’l Forest: Routt
Elevation Map Pancake Rocks

Trail Pictures

View from the overlook trail of the National Recreation Area

View from the overlook trail of the National Recreation Area

View from the overlook trail of the National Recreation Area

The Overlook trail is flat and paved the whole way

The Overlook trail is flat and paved the whole way

The Overlook trail is flat and paved the whole way

The Overlook trail is handicap accessible

The Overlook trail is handicap accessible

The Overlook trail is handicap accessible

The falls from the Overlook trail

The falls from the Overlook trail

The falls from the Overlook trail

283' falls view from the overlook

283′ falls view from the overlook

283′ falls view from the overlook

Designated a National Recreation Trail

Designated a National Recreation Trail

Designated a National Recreation Trail

A picnic area near the trailhead

A picnic area near the trailhead

A picnic area near the trailhead

The trail winds through aspen and evergreen forests

The trail winds through aspen and evergreen forests

The trail winds through aspen and evergreen forests

The National Recreation Trail nearing the falls

The National Recreation Trail nearing the falls

The National Recreation Trail nearing the falls

May morning at the base of the falls

May morning at the base of the falls

May morning at the base of the falls

View from the foot bridge

View from the foot bridge

View from the foot bridge

Spring snow melt has the falls roaring

Spring snow melt has the falls roaring

Spring snow melt has the falls roaring

GPS Route with Elevation

 

Video Tour

Trail Directions

There are two hiking trails from the parking lot at the end of Fish Creek Fall Road.

Fish Creek Falls Overlook: 1/4 of a mile (400 m) of paved trail which is handicap accesible and relatively flat.  It ends at a viewing station where the entirety of the falls can be seen.

Base of the Falls: the 1/4 mile trail goes down into the U-shaped valley formed by glaciers. At the bottom of the valley is a foot bridge over Fish Creek with a close up view of the falls. The trail continues on to Upper Fish Creek Falls and then to the Wyoming Trail, a long trail running the northwestern mountains of Colorado to Wyoming.

Trailhead Directions

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Potato Lake (9,800′), San Juan Range

Potato Lake (9,800′), San Juan Range

by | Jul 6, 2021 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Rocky Mountains, San Juan Range, Trip Reports

Potato Lake (9,800′), San Juan Range

Spud Lake Trail #661 to Potato Lake is beautiful and short, with minimal elevation gain, making this an extremely popular hike. Passing through aspen glades, it offers excellent views of Engineer Mountain, Grayrock Peak, and Spud Mountain, along with good views of the Needle Mountains to the east. The natural lake has excellent fishing and a pleasant place to relax. This is a great summer hike for all ages, and the aspen leaves during the fall can be spectacular. Spud Lake has excellent fishing for brook trout and cutthroat trout.

Trail Stats

Potato Lake
  • Trailhead: Spud Lake TH #661
  • Round trip: 2.2 miles / 3.5 km
  • Elevation: 9,400′ – 9,800′ / 2,865 m – 2,987 m
  • County: La Plata
  • National Forest: San Juan
Elevation Map Pancake Rocks

Trail Pictures

Heading toward Spud Trail # 661

Heading toward Spud Trail # 661

Heading toward Spud Trail # 661

Road to the trailhead. High clearance vehicle advised

Road to the trailhead. High clearance vehicle advised

Road to the trailhead. High clearance vehicle advised

A lake filled with lily pads across from the trailhead

A lake filled with lily pads across from the trailhead

A lake filled with lily pads across from the trailhead

The Spud Trail TH

The Spud Trail TH

The Spud Trail TH

Near the beginning of the trail

Near the beginning of the trail

Near the beginning of the trail

Aspen grew into a tree holder

Aspen grew into a tree holder

Aspen grew into a tree holder

Beautiful Aspen groves along the trail

Beautiful Aspen groves along the trail

Beautiful Aspen groves along the trail

Beaver ponds along the trail

Beaver ponds along the trail

Beaver ponds along the trail

Elevation gain on the trail is minimal

Elevation gain on the trail is minimal

Elevation gain on the trail is minimal

The trail winding through the San Juan Wilderness

The trail winding through the San Juan Wilderness

The trail winding through the San Juan Wilderness

A beaver pond just before the lake

A beaver pond just before the lake

A beaver pond just before the lake

A well defined trail to the lake

A well defined trail to the lake

A well defined trail to the lake

View of Engineer Mountain (12,968') from the trail

View of Engineer Mountain (12,968′) from the trail

View of Engineer Mountain (12,968′) from the trail

Lots of Aspens mixed in with the Conifer trees

Lots of Aspens mixed in with the Conifer trees

Lots of Aspens mixed in with the Conifer trees

First view of the lake from the trail

First view of the lake from the trail

First view of the lake from the trail

Nice beach areas around the lake

Nice beach areas around the lake

Nice beach areas around the lake

West end of Potato Lake

West end of Potato Lake

West end of Potato Lake

View of a water inlet to the lake

View of a water inlet to the lake

View of a water inlet to the lake

Wildflowers in July along the shore

Wildflowers in July along the shore

Wildflowers in July along the shore

Beaver home on the west side

Beaver home on the west side

Beaver home on the west side

Needle Mountains in the background

Needle Mountains in the background

Needle Mountains in the background

The lake is dog friendly

The lake is dog friendly

The lake is dog friendly

The trail takes you all the way around the lake

The trail takes you all the way around the lake

The trail takes you all the way around the lake

Beautiful Lake near Durango

Beautiful Lake near Durango

Beautiful Lake near Durango

Potato Lake is a natural body of water

Potato Lake is a natural body of water

Potato Lake is a natural body of water

GPS Route with Elevation

 

Video Tour

Trail Directions

Drive approximately 28.5 miles north on U.S. 550. Just past the bridge over Cascade Creek, turn right onto Lime Creek Road, #591. Follow road for about 3 miles. High clearance vehicles recommended for last part of road. Trailhead is on the north (left) side of road across the street from a beautiful pond full of lilies. 

The trailhead is unmarked but the trail itself is well defined. There are no trail junctions, so just follow the trail to the lake, passing beside beaver ponds until you reach Potato Lake.

Trailhead Directions

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Arikaree River (3,317′), Eastern Plains

Arikaree River (3,317′), Eastern Plains

by | May 3, 2021 | Eastern Plains, Easy Hikes, Trip Reports

Arikaree River (3,317′), Eastern Plains

The point where the Arikaree River flows out of Colorado and into Kansas is the lowest point in Colorado, at an elevation of 3,317 feet (1,011 m).

It holds the distinction of being the highest low point of any U.S. state, and higher than the highest points of 18 states and the District of Columbia.

The Arikaree River has been made one of the designated areas under the Colorado Natural Areas Program because it is “part of the largest and best remaining example of a naturally functioning Great Plains river system in Colorado.” It has several species of reptiles, fish, and amphibians that are native and uncommon. The area is a sanctuary for many bird species, including burrowing owls, ferruginous hawks, and greater prairie chickens. The habitat is near-pristine and there are high-quality riparian and native prairie plants.

Trail Stats

Arikaree River
Elevation Map Pancake Rocks

Trail Pictures

View of the river basin from the road

View of the river basin from the road

View of the river basin from the road

The Arikaree River outlined by trees in the distance

The Arikaree River outlined by trees in the distance

The Arikaree River outlined by trees in the distance

Beautiful purple flowers near the river

Beautiful purple flowers near the river

Beautiful purple flowers near the river

Early Spring with trees just starting to bud

Early Spring with trees just starting to bud

Early Spring with trees just starting to bud

View along the Arikaree River river bed.

View along the Arikaree River river bed.

View along the Arikaree River river bed.

A second embankment leads to the current stream bed.

A second embankment leads to the current stream bed.

A second embankment leads to the current stream bed.

Close to the Beecher Island Battlefield

Close to the Beecher Island Battlefield

Close to the Beecher Island Battlefield

Vegetation in the old river bed

Vegetation in the old river bed

Vegetation in the old river bed

When the river was larger, this area was part of the riverbed.

When the river was larger, this area was part of the riverbed.

When the river was larger, this area was part of the riverbed.

Trees growing down the first embankment

Trees growing down the first embankment

Trees growing down the first embankment

3 Corners - Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska state line

3 Corners – Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska state line

3 Corners – Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska state line

Sign for the 3 corners turnoff

Sign for the 3 corners turnoff

Sign for the 3 corners turnoff

View Northeast of the Arikaree River valley

View Northeast of the Arikaree River valley

View Northeast of the Arikaree River valley

Vulture overlooking the river basin

Vulture overlooking the river basin

Vulture overlooking the river basin

Arikaree River bottom

Arikaree River bottom

Arikaree River bottom

GPS Route with Elevation

All the elevation maps indicate the lowest point is approximately 3,317′. My GPS on the hike recorded elevations in the 3,200′ range. This may be because I was able to walk on the river bottom or possibly a calibration issue with my GPS device, I’m not sure.

Video Tour

Trail Directions

I was unable to find the recommended route to the Arikaree River basin near the Kansas border from resources online. I initially tried to access the basin from the south, but the area was fenced and looked like I had to cross private property. 

I then approached the basin from the north and found an unfenced area along the border. This is the route I took. I cannot recommend any route as I am not sure of the status of the area I crossed to get to the river. 

The river itself did not have water flowing when I visited in early May. I was able to walk along the river bottom with only a few pools of water scattered along the route.

The approach from the north also provides access to the Tri-Corners area, where the Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska borders meet. There is a road leading to the point and a plaque describing the area for visitors.

 

Trailhead Directions

Weather

Trappers Lake (9,627′), Flat Tops

Trappers Lake (9,627′), Flat Tops

by | Jun 5, 2020 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Flat Tops, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports

Trappers Lake (9,627′), Flat Tops

Roughly a mile and a half long and half a mile wide, reaching depths of 180 feet, Trappers Lake is the second largest natural lake in Colorado after Grand Lake. You reach the lake by taking the Flat Tops Scenic Byway from Yampa or Meeker.

The area is as wild today as it was when it was first discovered. In 1891 White River, which includes the Flat Tops, became one of the first two National Forests in the U.S.

The trail around the lake is named for Arthur Carhart, whose survey near the lake in 1919 inspired him to recommend preserving the area without development for future generations to enjoy. Arthur Carhart’s efforts set the stage for the Wilderness Act of 1964 and the National Wilderness Preservation System which includes Trappers Lake and the rest of the Flat Tops Wilderness.

Trail Stats

Trappers Lake

Trail Pictures

View of Trappers Lake from the Arthur H Carhart Trail

View of Trappers Lake from the Arthur H Carhart Trail

View of Trappers Lake from the Arthur H Carhart Trail

View to the southeast from the trail

View to the southeast from the trail

View to the southeast from the trail

Trailhead for the Arthur H Carhart trail

Trailhead for the Arthur H Carhart trail

Trailhead for the Arthur H Carhart trail

Northwestern side of Trappers Lake

Northwestern side of Trappers Lake

Northwestern side of Trappers Lake

Looking into the Amphitheater

Looking into the Amphitheater

Looking into the Amphitheater

South side of the lake

South side of the lake

South side of the lake

The major inlet to the left

The major inlet to the left

The major inlet to the left

Trappers Peak on the left

Trappers Peak on the left

Trappers Peak on the left

The cabin at Trappers Lake

The cabin at Trappers Lake

The cabin at Trappers Lake

The cabin sits on the east side of the lake

The cabin sits on the east side of the lake

The cabin sits on the east side of the lake

Looking northwest towards the trailhead

Looking northwest towards the trailhead

Looking northwest towards the trailhead

Trappers Lake in early June

Trappers Lake in early June

Trappers Lake in early June

Heading south to the cabin

Heading south to the cabin

Heading south to the cabin

Little Trappers Lake lies beyond the cabin

Little Trappers Lake lies beyond the cabin

Little Trappers Lake lies beyond the cabin

Small lake inlets to the left

Small lake inlets to the left

Small lake inlets to the left

1.5 miles long, .5 miles wide and reaching a depth of 180'.

1.5 miles long, .5 miles wide and reaching a depth of 180′.

1.5 miles long, .5 miles wide and reaching a depth of 180′.

Several types of trout live in the lake

Several types of trout live in the lake

Several types of trout live in the lake

A Brown Bear on the hillside near the lake

A Brown Bear on the hillside near the lake

A Brown Bear on the hillside near the lake

Over 11,400' high flat top

Over 11,400′ high flat top

Over 11,400′ high flat top

Fishing for trout in the distance

Fishing for trout in the distance

Fishing for trout in the distance

The trail heading north

The trail heading north

The trail heading north

The trail leading around the lake

The trail leading around the lake

The trail leading around the lake

One of the many small inlets

One of the many small inlets

One of the many small inlets

Trappers Lake TH view

Trappers Lake TH view

Trappers Lake TH view

GPS Route with Elevation

Video Tour

Weather

Trail Directions

From the end of Trappers Lake road, take the Arthur H Carhart Trail in either direction around the lake. The trailhead is next to the Trappers Lake Overlook. The trail is easy to follow in summer conditions.

Trailhead Directions

Garden of the Gods (6,400′) Front Range

Garden of the Gods (6,400′) Front Range

by | Feb 23, 2019 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Touring, Trip Reports

Garden of the Gods (6,400′) Front Range

Garden of the Gods is a geologically unique 480 acre park, having one of the most complete and complex exposures of earth’s history anywhere in the country. On the outskirts of Colorado Springs, it is popular for hiking, technical rock climbing, biking, and horseback riding. There are more than 15 miles of trails, with a 1.1-mile trail running through the heart of the park, that is paved and wheelchair accessible. The park is a registered National Natural Landmark, with dramatic views of 300′ towering sandstone rock formations against a backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak.

Ro​xborough State Park to the north also has stunning red rock geological features within easy access of the parking lot.

Trail Pictures

Cathedral Valley sandstone formations

Cathedral Valley sandstone formations

Cathedral Valley sandstone formations

View of Garden of the Gods with Pikes Peak in the distance

View of Garden of the Gods with Pikes Peak in the distance

View of Garden of the Gods with Pikes Peak in the distance

Snow on Pikes Peak creating a bright reflection

Snow on Pikes Peak creating a bright reflection

Snow on Pikes Peak creating a bright reflection

Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock

Steamboat Rock on left and Balanced Rock in the middle

Steamboat Rock on left and Balanced Rock in the middle

Steamboat Rock on left and Balanced Rock in the middle

Sandstone formations in Cathedral Valley

Sandstone formations in Cathedral Valley

Sandstone formations in Cathedral Valley

North and South Gateway Rock

North and South Gateway Rock

North and South Gateway Rock

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

Entrance to Garden of the Gods

Entrance to Garden of the Gods

Entrance to Garden of the Gods

View north on a snowy February day

View north on a snowy February day

View north on a snowy February day

The red rocks and fresh snow create intricate patterns

The red rocks and fresh snow create intricate patterns

The red rocks and fresh snow create intricate patterns

Cathedral Valley with a cloud capped Cheyenne Mountain in the distance

Cathedral Valley with a cloud capped Cheyenne Mountain in the distance

Cathedral Valley with a cloud capped Cheyenne Mountain in the distance

Interesting tree/rock formation

Interesting tree/rock formation

Interesting tree/rock formation

Part of the Sleeping Giant formation on the left

Part of the Sleeping Giant formation on the left

Part of the Sleeping Giant formation on the left

The Perkins Central Garden Trail

The Perkins Central Garden Trail

The Perkins Central Garden Trail

Dedication plaque

Dedication plaque

Dedication plaque

Kindergarten Rock comprised of white sandstone

Kindergarten Rock comprised of white sandstone

Kindergarten Rock comprised of white sandstone

380' high sandstone formation

380′ high sandstone formation

380′ high sandstone formation

North Gateway Rock with the Kissing Camels formation creating an arch near the top

North Gateway Rock with the Kissing Camels formation creating an arch near the top

North Gateway Rock with the Kissing Camels formation creating an arch near the top

Summertime view of Pikes Peak

Summertime view of Pikes Peak

Summertime view of Pikes Peak

Fresh snow in Cathedral Valley

Fresh snow in Cathedral Valley

Fresh snow in Cathedral Valley

The red sandstone formations in stark contrast to the snow

The red sandstone formations in stark contrast to the snow

The red sandstone formations in stark contrast to the snow

Panorama from the visitors center

Panorama from the visitors center

Panorama from the visitors center

Kissing Camels formation at night

Kissing Camels formation at night

Kissing Camels formation at night

The main trail in the park, Perkins Central Garden Trail, is a paved, wheelchair-accessible 1.1-mile trail. It travels through the heart of the park’s largest and most scenic red rocks! The trail begins at the North Parking lot.

Download Map

Video Tour

Weather

Almagre Mountain (12,360′), Front Range

Almagre Mountain (12,360′), Front Range

by | Nov 26, 2017 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports

Almagre Mountain (12,360′), Front Range

Almagre Mountain (Mt Baldy) is the only other peak, besides Pikes Peak, above treeline when viewed from Colorado Springs. Located in the Pike National Forest just south of Pikes Peak, this hike is rated easy, but getting there can be a challenge. In order to drive to the closed gate on FSR 379A you will need to navigate a moderate 4X4 shelf road. The reward is unobstructed views from the summit area, with exceptional views of Pikes Peak and the cog railroad.

Nearby Mt Rosa and Cheyenne Mountain are also excellent hikes in the area.

Trail Stats

Almagre Mountain
  • Trailhead: Gate on FS379A
  • Round trip: 2.5 miles / 4 km
  • Elevation: 11,815′ – 12,360′ / 3,601 m – 3,767 m
  • County: El Paso
  • Agency: U.S. Forest Service
  • Nat’l Forest: Pike

Trail Pictures

Repeater on Almagre Mountain

Repeater on Almagre Mountain

Repeater on Almagre Mountain

View of Colorado Springs

View of Colorado Springs

View of Colorado Springs

The gate marks the beginning of the hike

The gate marks the beginning of the hike

The gate marks the beginning of the hike

Old Stage Rd

Old Stage Rd

Old Stage Rd

Dangerous 4X4 section

Dangerous 4X4 section

Dangerous 4X4 section

Road near the gate

Road near the gate

Road near the gate

View of Mt Rosa

View of Mt Rosa

View of Mt Rosa

Cliff band on Almagre Mountain

Cliff band on Almagre Mountain

Cliff band on Almagre Mountain

View of the Sawatch Range

View of the Sawatch Range

View of the Sawatch Range

Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the highest cog railway train in the world (14,114′)

Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the highest cog railway train in the world (14,114′)

Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the highest cog railway train in the world (14,114′)

View of Pikes Peak

View of Pikes Peak

View of Pikes Peak

A lone tree along the summit

A lone tree along the summit

A lone tree along the summit

From the left to right: Pikes Peak, North Almagre Mountain

From the left to right: Pikes Peak, North Almagre Mountain

From the left to right: Pikes Peak, North Almagre Mountain

Views west

Views west

Views west

Great views along the easy trail

Great views along the easy trail

Great views along the easy trail

Looking down the trail on Almagre Mountain

Looking down the trail on Almagre Mountain

Looking down the trail on Almagre Mountain

Heading northwest on the closed road

Heading northwest on the closed road

Heading northwest on the closed road

A shelter in Almagre Mountain's basin

A shelter in Almagre Mountain’s basin

A shelter in Almagre Mountain’s basin

Looking east along the closed road

Looking east along the closed road

Looking east along the closed road

GPS Route with Elevation

Video Tour

Trail Directions

From Old Stage Road, turn onto Forest Service Road 379, which goes to Frosty’s Park. You should have a high clearance vehicle to proceed the last 1.5 miles up the road to Frosty’s Park as of this writing. FSR 379A will be to the right further up and immediately begins climbing more steeply than FSR 379. If you do not have a 4X4 high clearance vehicle you will want to park at the intersection.

Trailhead Directions

Weather

Mt Blue Sky (14,268′), Front Range

Mt Blue Sky (14,268′), Front Range

by | Aug 20, 2016 | 14er's, Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Touring, Trip Reports

Mt Blue Sky (14,268′), Front Range

Mt Blue Sky can be accessed via the highest paved road in North America, reaching an elevation of 14,138′. The Mt Blue Sky Scenic Byway, maintained by the Forest Service, offers easy access to Colorado’s inspiring high mountain environment. A drive up, and short walk to the top will take your breath away in more ways than one. On the 15-mile one-way drive, there are stops at Mount Goliath Nature Center, Summit Lake Park, and the Summit Interpretive area of Mount Evans.

From the summit you will see another 14,000′ peak in close proximity, Mt Bierstadt (14,160′)

Mount Evans, along with Echo Lake, was designated as a historic site by the American Physical Society in 2017, commemorating the many cosmic-ray physics experiments conducted on the mountain between 1935 and 1960.

Trail Stats

Mt Blue Sky
  • Trailhead: Mt Blue Sky summit parking Lot
  • Round trip: .25 miles / .4 km hike (14 miles /22.5 km drive)
  • Elevation: 14,130′ – 14,268′ / 4,307 m – 4,349 m
  • County: Clear Creek
  • Agency: U.S. Forest Service
  • Nat’l Wilderness: Mt Blue Sky

Trail Pictures

North Americas highest road

North Americas highest road

North Americas highest road

Echo Lake near the Mt Evans Rd turn off

Echo Lake near the Mt Evans Rd turn off

Echo Lake near the Mt Evans Rd turn off

Paved road

Paved road

Paved road

Summit view of Summit Lake

Summit view of Summit Lake

Summit view of Summit Lake

View of Mt Bierstadt

View of Mt Bierstadt

View of Mt Bierstadt

Observatory on Mt Evans

Observatory on Mt Evans

Observatory on Mt Evans

View of Mt Evans Rd

View of Mt Evans Rd

View of Mt Evans Rd

Structure near the summit

Structure near the summit

Structure near the summit

The hike to the summit

The hike to the summit

The hike to the summit

Summit Lake below

Summit Lake below

Summit Lake below

Alpine tundra

Alpine tundra

Alpine tundra

Mt Evans summit from Summit Lake

Mt Evans summit from Summit Lake

Mt Evans summit from Summit Lake

Summit Lake

Summit Lake

Summit Lake

Ancient trees

Ancient trees

Ancient trees

Old bristlecone forest

Old bristlecone forest

Old bristlecone forest

Conditions at the summit

Conditions at the summit

Conditions at the summit

GPS Route with Elevation

Video Tour

Trail Directions

Follow the only paved road, Hwy 5,  14 miles to summit parking lot. Once there, take a short 1/4 mile hike and you will be standing on the summit!

Trailhead Directions

Weather

Zapata Falls (9,250′), Sangre de Cristo Range

Zapata Falls (9,250′), Sangre de Cristo Range

by | Dec 31, 2015 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Rocky Mountains, Sangre de Cristo Range, Trip Reports

Zapata Falls (9,250′), Sangre de Cristo Range

This popular short hike to Zapata Falls is located 3 miles south of the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, off of Highway 150. Simply driving to the trailhead provides an excellent view of the entire dune field and San Luis Valley. Drive (east) onto a rough dirt road marked by a large sign, and drive 3.5 miles to the trailhead. To view the falls, hike 1/2 mile, and wade into a crevasse where the 30 ft. high falls cascade onto a ledge. Even in winter, water can still be heard flowing deep underneath the ice.

Next door at the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, some of the highest elevation sand dunes in North America, including High Dune and Star Dune can be found.

Trail Stats

Zapata Falls
  • Trailhead: Zapata Falls
  • Round trip: 1 mile / 1.6 km
  • Elevation: 9,035′ – 9,250′  / 2,754 m – 2,819 m
  • County: Saguache
  • Agency: BLM
  • Nat’l Forest: Rio Grande

Trail Pictures

Zapata Falls trail

Zapata Falls trail

Zapata Falls trail

Looking up the frozen falls you can hear water still running underneath

Looking up the frozen falls you can hear water still running underneath

Looking up the frozen falls you can hear water still running underneath

Zapata Falls - 30 ft drop

Zapata Falls – 30 ft drop

Zapata Falls – 30 ft drop

View into the entrance

View into the entrance

View into the entrance

Zapata Falls entrance

Zapata Falls entrance

Zapata Falls entrance

Walking over frozen run off

Walking over frozen run-off with microspikes

Walking over frozen run-off with microspikes

Trail junction near the falls

Trail junction near the falls

Trail junction near the falls

Short trail to the waterfall

Short trail to the waterfall

Short trail to the waterfall

May 2018 Zapata Falls

May 2018 Zapata Falls

May 2018 Zapata Falls

Leaving the cave entrance

Leaving the cave entrance

Leaving the cave entrance

View of the Great Sand Dunes from Zapata Falls trail

View of the Great Sand Dunes from Zapata Falls trail

View of the Great Sand Dunes from Zapata Falls trail

Water just below the falls

Water just below the falls

Water just below the falls

On a ledge below the 30 ft Zapata Falls

On a ledge below the 30 ft Zapata Falls

On a ledge below the 30 ft Zapata Falls

Zapata Falls exit

Zapata Falls exit

Zapata Falls exit

Entrance to the falls center left

Entrance to the falls center left

Entrance to the falls center left

Zapata Falls turnoff near the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Zapata Falls turnoff near the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Zapata Falls turnoff near the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

30 ft tall Zapata Falls

30 ft tall Zapata Falls

30 ft tall Zapata Falls

30' Zapata Falls

30′ Zapata Falls

30′ Zapata Falls

The falls to scale

The falls to scale

The falls to scale

Zapata Falls exit

Zapata Falls exit

Zapata Falls exit

Zapata Falls May 2018

Zapata Falls May 2018

Zapata Falls May 2018

GPX Route with Elevation

Video Tour

Trail Directions

From the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center, drive south about 8 miles, then turn left (east) onto a dirt road. Drive the remaining 3.5 miles to the trailhead.

To view the falls, hike about 1/2 mile, cross the creek, then scramble up the rocks and stream into a crevasse where the 30 ft. high falls cascade down.

Trailhead Directions

Weather

Paint Mines Park (6,791′), Eastern Plains

Paint Mines Park (6,791′), Eastern Plains

by | Jan 10, 2015 | Eastern Plains, Easy Hikes, Trip Reports

Paint Mines Park (6,791′), Eastern Plains

Paint Mines Park is located on the eastern plains near Calhan, Colorado. The 750 acre park features geological formations including spires, chasms, overhangs, and carved walls. These formations were created through erosion, creating gullies and exposed layers of clay and jasper. Oxidization of iron deposits created the colorful clays, which range from light yellow to deep red.

Another interesting geological site on the eastern plains is the Picket Wire Canyonlands Tracksite. Further south on the eastern plains, it is home to the largest dinosaur track site in North America.

Trail Stats

Paint Mines Park

Elevation Map (select to enlarge)

Trail Pictures

Entrance to Paint Mines Park

Entrance to Paint Mines Park

Entrance to Paint Mines Park

View of Pikes Peak in the distance

View of Pikes Peak in the distance

View of Pikes Peak in the distance

View above the gullies

View above the gullies

View above the gullies

Arched formation

Arched formation

Arched formation

Paint Mines Park formations

Paint Mines Park formations

Paint Mines Park formations

Early morning sunlight

Early morning sunlight

Early morning sunlight

Lots of areas to explore

Lots of areas to explore

Lots of areas to explore

The slower erroding white clay protects the layers underneath

The slower erroding white clay protects the layers underneath

The slower erroding white clay protects the layers underneath

The red is caused by different levels of iron in the clay

The red is caused by different levels of iron in the clay

The red is caused by different levels of iron in the clay

Wild game was herded into the gulches to trap them

Wild game was herded into the gulches to trap them

Wild game was herded into the gulches to trap them

Colorful clays were used to make paint and pottery

Colorful clays were used to make paint and pottery

Colorful clays were used to make paint and pottery

The ice floofs were everywhere

The ice floofs were everywhere

The ice floofs were everywhere

Interesting ice formations on the trail

Interesting ice formations on the trail

Interesting ice formations on the trail

The first formations were mostly white

The first formations were mostly white

The first formations were mostly white

Crisp morning

Crisp morning

Crisp morning

GPS Route with Elevation

Video Tour

Trail Directions

From either trailhead the best approach is to head for the west side of the park as this is where 90% of the rock formations are located that make this park distinct.

Taking the loop from Paint Mines Rd trailhead, the trail initially heads east and curves to the south. Once heading south you’ll have views into the valley and a bench to soak it all in. The trail then descends into valley with white carved walls and spires immediately to the west.

Shortly after the white spires you’ll approach a trail junction. Take the trail to the right (south), which leads deeper into the gully area. There are many beautiful dead-end spurs that take you closer to the formations. This is a great place to take your time and explore all of these side trails. The canyons here range in color from deep reds, to yellows, to white.

The main trail continues east and gradually climbs out of the gully. There are more formations to the north before leveling out on grasslands. From here the trail continues east to a junction with a second trailhead. Take the left trail northwest over vast rolling grasslands to continue the loop. The trail widens here and provides views of Pikes Peak far off to the west along with a bench on top of a slight rise.

There are a couple of smaller formations to the south as you continue to the southwest. Eventually you’ll come back to the original trail junction. Head straight (west) to get back to the trailhead.

Trailhead Directions

Weather

Spruce Mountain (7,635′), Front Range

Spruce Mountain (7,635′), Front Range

by | Oct 11, 2014 | Dog Friendly, Easy Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports

Spruce Mountain (7,635′), Front Range

Spruce Mountain is located on the Palmer Divide, on the eastern fringe of the Front Range. The top of the mesa offers great views of the Palmer Divide, with interesting sandstone formations along the trail. Hiking to the upper loop is a quick climb through shady forests to a well maintained trail that circles the top of the mesa.

There are abundant outdoor opportunities in the area, including Mt Herman and Devils Head Lookout.

Trail Stats

Spruce Mountain
  • Trailhead: Spruce Mountain
  • Round trip: 6.5 miles / 10.5km (can do much shorter routes)
  • Elevation: 7,270′ – 7,635′  / 2,216 m – 2,327 m
  • County: Douglas
  • Agency: Douglas County
  • Open Space: Spruce Mountain

Trail Pictures

View southwest

View southwest

View southwest

Formations on the south side

Formations on the south side

Formations on the south side

View from Paddock's Pont

View from Paddock’s Pont

View from Paddock’s Pont

Paddocks Point

Paddocks Point

Paddocks Point

View of Spruce Mountain

View of Spruce Mountain

View of Spruce Mountain

View north

View north

View north

Large sandstone formations

Large sandstone formations

Large sandstone formations

View south

View south

View south

Table with a view

Table with a view

Table with a view

Sunset from Windy Point

Sunset from Windy Point

Sunset from Windy Point

Windy Point on the western edge

Windy Point on the western edge

Windy Point on the western edge

The trail on top

The trail on top

The trail on top

GPS Route with Elevation

Video Tour

Trail Directions

The Spruce Mountain Trail switchbacks 400 feet up the north side of the mesa. Once you reach the Upper Loop Junction, you’ll be hiking on a fairly flat 1.7 mile loop.

Along the top, be sure to take in the views from several rocky overlooks. The first lookout offers views of the Greenland Trail and Greenland Open Space below. You also have great views of Pikes Peak and the Palmer Divide. Douglas County provides a brochure for trail maps and additional information.

Trailhead Directions

Weather

Alberta Falls (9,400′), Front Range

Alberta Falls (9,400′), Front Range

by | Jun 8, 2014 | Easy Hikes, Front Range, Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountains, Trip Reports

Alberta Falls (9,400′), Front Range

Alberta Falls, located in Glacier Gorge, is one of the more popular hiking destinations in Rocky Mountain National Park. The scenic 30-foot waterfall thunders down a small gorge along Glacier Creek, with the short trail following Glacier Creek to the falls. The falls are fed by snow melt year around, being most dramatic in the late spring and early summer. The water from the falls feeds Bear Lake, the most popular lake in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Trail Stats

Alberta Falls

Trail Pictures

Snowshoe Hare

Snowshoe Hare

Snowshoe Hare

Chipmunk collecting bedding material

Chipmunk collecting bedding material

Chipmunk collecting bedding material

View of Glacier Gorge

View of Glacier Gorge

View of Glacier Gorge

Glacier Gorge trail

Glacier Gorge trail

Glacier Gorge trail

Alberta Falls trail

Alberta Falls trail

Alberta Falls trail

Glacier Creek

Glacier Creek

Glacier Creek

Heavy spring runoff has the falls roaring

Heavy spring runoff has the falls roaring

Heavy spring runoff has the falls roaring

A short hike to a beautiful waterfall

A short hike to a beautiful waterfall

A short hike to a beautiful waterfall

Thundering snow melt

Thundering snow melt

Thundering snow melt

Alberta Falls

Alberta Falls

Alberta Falls

Approaching the falls

Approaching the falls

Approaching the falls

View from the trail along Glacier Creek

View from the trail along Glacier Creek

View from the trail along Glacier Creek

GPS Route with Elevation

Video Tour

Trail Directions

The trail starts at Glacier Gorge trailhead and heads south, paralleling the creek. At about 0.3 miles, the trail intersects with two others, one branching back toward the north to Sprague Lake. Continue on to the Bear Lake junction turning left.

The trail passes several aspen groves, and into a pine forest. The trail parallels Glacier Creek to the falls, a short .6 mile walk on an excellent path. On arrival you will see the falls roar through a granite chute just off the trail.

Trailhead Directions

Weather

Mesa Verde National Park (7,500′), Chapin Mesa

Mesa Verde National Park (7,500′), Chapin Mesa

by | Jul 22, 2012 | Easy Hikes, Trip Reports

Mesa Verde National Park (7,500′), Chapin Mesa

Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park protects some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites in the United States. With more than 5,000 sites, including 600 cliff dwellings, it is the largest archaeological preserve in the United States.

The Mesa Verdeans survived using a combination of hunting, gathering, and subsistence farming of crops such as corn, beans, and squash. They built the mesa’s first pueblos sometime after 650, and by the end of the 12th century, they began to construct the massive cliff dwellings for which the park is best known. By 1285, following a period of social and environmental instability driven by a series of severe and prolonged droughts, they abandoned the area and moved south to locations in Arizona and New Mexico.

Trail Stats

Cliff Palace Trail
Mesa Verde Map

Park Pictures

Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde

Oak Tree House

Oak Tree House

Oak Tree House

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Square Tower House

Square Tower House

Square Tower House

Square Tower House

Square Tower House

Square Tower House

Navajo Canyon

Navajo Canyon

Navajo Canyon

House of many Windows

House of many Windows

House of many Windows

House of many Windows

House of many Windows

House of many Windows

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Spruce Tree House

Coyote Village

Coyote Village

Coyote Village

Coyote Village

Coyote Village

Coyote Village

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace

Work area

Work area

Work area

Oak Tree House

Oak Tree House

Oak Tree House

Oak Tree House

Oak Tree House

Oak Tree House

GPX with Elevation

Video Tour

Cliff Palace

Cliff Palace is a multi-storied ruin. It is the best-known cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde, is located in the largest alcove in the center of the Great Mesa. It was south and southwest-facing, providing greater warmth from the sun in the winter. Dating back more than 700 years, the dwelling is constructed of sandstone, wooden beams, and mortar. Many of the rooms were brightly painted. Cliff Palace was home to approximately 125 people, but was likely an important part of a larger community of sixty nearby pueblos, which housed a combined six hundred or more people. With 23 kivas and 150 rooms, Cliff Palace is the largest cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park.

Trailhead Directions

Weather