Highlight • Trail
Rattlesnake Gulch Trail
Hiking
5.0
(9)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
May 10, 2022
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Rattlesnake Gulch Trail
5.0
(12)
237
hikers
5.37km
01:49
280m
260m
Embark on the Rattlesnake Gulch Loop for an easy hike that promises consistent uphill climbs and rewarding vistas. This 3.3-mile (5.4 km) route gains 919 feet (280 metres) in elevation, taking you about 1 hour and 49 minutes to complete. As you ascend, you'll navigate a generally steep path with switchbacks, moving through areas of fragrant ponderosa pines and open sections. The trail offers spectacular scenery, with expansive views stretching across Eldorado Canyon and the eastern plains. Make sure to pause at the Continental Divide Overlook, where you can soak in grand panoramas of the snow-capped Front Range peaks.
Planning your visit to Rattlesnake Gulch Loop is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible, conveniently located between Denver and Boulder. You can bring your canine companion along, as this route is dog-friendly. If you plan to hike in winter, be aware that the terrain can become icy and vertiginous in certain spots; carrying crampons and trekking poles is advisable for your safety. Always check local park conditions before heading out.
Beyond the natural beauty, the trail also offers a glimpse into the past with the historic Ruins of the Crags Hotel. This unique feature adds a layer of historical intrigue to your outdoor adventure. The route's combination of natural splendor, historical remnants, and accessibility makes it a notable option for a quick escape into the Front Range foothills.
5.0
(12)
237
hikers
5.37km
01:49
280m
260m
Embark on the Rattlesnake Gulch Loop, an easy 3.3-mile (5.4 km) hike that offers a rewarding experience in Eldorado Canyon State Park. You will gain 919 feet (280 metres) over an estimated 1 hour and 49 minutes, making it a great option for a quick outing. The route winds through mixed forests and open areas, revealing the rugged beauty of the canyon with its distinctive cliffs and rock formations. As you ascend, you will reach the Continental Divide Overlook, providing grand panoramic views of distant snow-capped peaks. Keep an eye out for rock climbers scaling the canyon walls, adding a dynamic element to the scenery.
The Rattlesnake Gulch Loop is accessible year-round, but be prepared for varying conditions. During winter, the trail can become icy and dangerous, so consider bringing crampons or microspikes and trekking poles for safety. This popular route, situated within Eldorado Canyon State Park, often experiences high visitor numbers, particularly on weekends. To enjoy a more peaceful hike, plan your visit for a weekday or arrive early in the morning.
Beyond its natural beauty, the trail offers a good workout combined with historical intrigue. The area is rich in history, and the trail itself provides a unique perspective on the geological formations of Eldorado Canyon. It is a notable route within the state park, known for its accessibility and the impressive vistas it provides, making it a favorite among local hikers.
7
hikers
7.37km
02:14
350m
70m
Hike the moderate 4.6-mile Continental Divide Overlook via Fowler and Rattlesnake Gulch Trails for panoramic views and historic ruins.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,970 m
Weather
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Saturday 16 May
21°C
11°C
69 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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