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A fantastic hike, right near town!


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Map Key

10.4

Miles

16.7

KM

Out and Back

8,275' 2,522 m

High

6,842' 2,085 m

Low

1,435' 437 m

Up

1,435' 437 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

25%

Max Grade (14°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Family Friendly This is a beautiful hike near town that is worth the time, no matter where you turn around. It starts as a dirt road and then turns to singletrack that winds its way up to Dry Lake Campground.

This trail is closed above the hiking gate from December 1 through April 15 for elk calving.

Overview

This trail has it all, and it's easily accessible from town!

Need to Know

Because it's easy to get to and beautiful, you're likely to see other hikers, cyclists, dogs, etc.

Description

Let's review:
  • Beautiful singletrack
  • Wildflowers galore, including enormous Rocky Mountain Columbines (the state flower)
  • Old-growth aspen groves
  • A dozen bridges
  • Cool rock formations
  • A beautiful creek
  • Accessible from downtown

Yes, this trail is amazing! And it's no secret, so you'll undoubtedly see other trail users. Though a downhill-only mountain bike trail called Spring Roll that runs parallel has helped immensely with a lot of the mountain bike traffic.

From the bottom, this trail cruises up an easy dirt road for half a mile to a pond and picnic area. Continue up the dirt road another couple tenths, cross the creek, then ascend a steep rocky section of road. From here, the singletrack begins and gets better and better for the next 3+ miles.

The first bit is steep but manageable. Pass cool rock formations, huge aspens, and a beautiful creek all the way up to the top.

The hike down is super fun and fast. Be careful of a few loose sections, though.

A trail of this quality, leaving right from downtown, is indeed a special thing. Enjoy!

Flora & Fauna

Rocky Mountain Columbines (the state flower), and tons of old-growth aspens. Keep your eyes peeled for deer and moose in the area, as they like to roam the peaceful meadows along the trail. Be sure to read the instructions at the trailhead regarding how to handle a moose encounter, as improper precautions could spell trouble.

Contacts

Shared By:

Tom Robson

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 19 votes

#729

Overall
  4.5 from 19 votes
5 Star
47%
4 Star
53%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#151

in Colorado

#729

Overall
22 Views Last Month
10,230 Since Jun 25, 2014
Intermediate Intermediate

12%
12%
76%
0%
0%
0%

Photos

Wildflowers and Aspens near the trailhead
Jul 30, 2020 near Steambo…, CO
Sunset on the Panorama Trail
Aug 5, 2022 near Steambo…, CO
Everything is ALIVE on this awesome route.
Jan 30, 2015 near Steambo…, CO
Trail entrance at open gate to Dry Lake Campground
Aug 16, 2020 near Steambo…, CO
Trailhead
Jul 30, 2020 near Steambo…, CO
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 45 days ago
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

May 22, 2023
G P
Sep 3, 2021
James Page
Jul 7, 2021
Annika Henningsson
Last day for a dog park hike
Oct 31, 2020
Marc Corona
Aug 8, 2020
Zach J
Aug 1, 2020
Joe Scharf
4.5mi
Jun 2, 2020
Delia Haefeli
Aug 14, 2019
Greg Wozniak
Kids made it up and down! 10.4mi — 5h 30m
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