Abert's Loop

Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This hike takes you through the best of Apex Park, starting with a tough climb up through Enchanted Forest. Hitting five different trails, this route winds through old growth forest, ponderosa pine, and meadows and has stunning views of the city from Grubstake Loop.

Wonderful facilities at the trailhead, including a filtered water bottle filler and clean toilets.

Lots of mountain bikers on this trail, so keep your head up around those turns and listen for the bells.

Get there early! This one is close to civilization and gets busy late morning.

Starting at the Apex trailhead bypass, climb the rocky Apex Trail to the junction with Enchanted Forest. Continue on Enchanted Forest through dense forest and meadows on a climb that seems relentless in spite of a few magnanimous drops. This section of trail is less rocky, but there are roots and other foot-level obstacles to be mindful of.

Meeting up with Apex again, you get a reprieve as you descend to the mostly flat Hardscrabble Trail. Things get a little more challenging as you meet Sluicebox, whose switchbacks climb once again over rocky terrain. The downhill challenge begins at Grubstake Loop, which winds through ponderosa pine forest (Abert's squirrel spotted here, hence the name) and around Indian Mountain, finally climbing through wildflower meadows along the east facing ridge where you'll find spectacular views of Golden and Denver. This is the most exposed part of the entire route. The last leg is a gentle downhill on Argos Trail back to Apex Trail and the parking lot.