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Devil's Head Lookout

RECOMMENDED ROUTE
Intermediate Intermediate
 4.7 (52)
  1. Areas
  2. CO
  3. …Front Range
  4. Deckers
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“A shaded trail to the only remaining fire lookout on the Front Range, offering 360-degree views. ”

Mike Langenkamp
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Map Key

2.7

Miles

4.4

KM

Out and Back

9,677' 2,950 m

High

8,832' 2,692 m

Low

887' 270 m

Up

885' 270 m

Down

12%

Avg Grade (7°)

28%

Max Grade (16°)

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Rampart Range Rd. is usually closed from December to the beginning of April.

Overview

The trail leads to Devil's Head Lookout, the last of seven original Front Range fire lookout towers that is still in service. This is a popular hike for kids and families. There is a beautiful meadow just below the steps leading to a lookout that is perfect for a picnic. The trail is shaded most of the way, providing relief from the intense sun in the summer.

Need to Know

Parking is a problem in the summer as this is a very popular trail. The Lookout Tower and trail may or may not be open during the summer season depending upon; weather conditions, available staffing, and other factors

Description

The Devil's Head Trail #611 begins near the picnic area adjacent to Devil's Head Campground. The 1.4-mile long trail climbs steadily through the woods and along a small creek, with an elevation gain of 940 feet. Once you reach the end of the trail, there are 143 steep steps to get to the actual fire lookout. The stairs are steep, and while there are railings the entire way up, hikers with a fear of heights might prefer to enjoy the views from the ground.

The lookout is located at 9,748 feet elevation with outstanding views of the surrounding Front Range. The fire tower is usually staffed from mid-May through mid-September. Once you are done appreciated the 360-degree views, head back down the way you came.

History & Background

Devil's Head Lookout, the last of the seven original Front Range Lookout towers still in continuous use, turns 103 years old this year (2015) and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Contacts

Land Manager: USFS - Pike National Forest - South Platte Ranger District

Shared By:

Mike Langenkamp with improvements by s platte
Full Details

Trail Ratings

  4.7 from 52 votes

#1

in Deckers

#190

Overall
  4.7 from 52 votes
5 Star
73%
4 Star
25%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
2%
Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Deckers

#49

in Colorado

#190

Overall
52 Views Last Month
15,288 Since Apr 27, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate
6%
2%
90%
2%
0%
0%
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Photos

Meadow below the Lookout
Apr 28, 2015 near Perry Park, CO
The stairs to the fire tower offer excellent views.
Oct 2, 2017 near Perry Park, CO
Great view from the trail
Apr 28, 2015 near Perry Park, CO
Past the halfway point looking west, next to the "Let's Be Still" painted trail placard.
Jul 22, 2018 near Perry Park, CO
Still shuttered from the winter
Apr 28, 2015 near Perry Park, CO
Winter wonderland
Apr 28, 2015 near Perry Park, CO

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Weather

Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 56 days ago
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Check-Ins

Jun 12, 2024
Gina G
Nov 21, 2023
Bruce Mueller
Oct 25, 2023
Matt Culpepper
Great weather and summit hike with Dad. Last day of the Lookout open. (3.4/970) 2.7mi
Aug 6, 2023
Cindy Correa
Jul 23, 2023
Mike Ankner
Jul 1, 2023
Leah RK
Perfect conditions; dry trail and moderate temps. 3mi — 2h 12m
Nov 9, 2022
Erin Andersen
Includes walking at lookouts 3.4mi — 2h 21m
Aug 1, 2022
Ari R.

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