The best walks and hikes around Cripple Creek

Embark on the Sentinel Point via Horsethief to Devils Playground Trail for a moderate hiking experience that promises outstanding scenery. This route covers 2.8 miles (4.5 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1668 feet (508 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 13 minutes to complete. You will navigate rocky ascents and encounter striking rock formations, especially as you approach the Devil's Playground area, offering a truly rugged feel.

When planning your visit, be aware that conditions can vary greatly; deep snow is possible during the off-season, which might require snowshoes. The trail involves Class 3 rock scrambling and route-finding once you are above the tree line, so carrying trekking poles and a GPS device is highly recommended. Always bring plenty of water and be prepared for potential lightning storms, especially as you near the summit.

This trail is notable for its expansive views from Sentinel Point, where you can see the Cripple Creek region, the Sangre de Cristo, and Sawatch Mountains, along with unique perspectives of Pikes Peak. As you climb higher, you will be rewarded with sweeping mountain vistas, including the Rampart Range, making this a memorable journey through Pike National Forest.

Embark on the Horsethief to the Crags Trail for a moderate hiking adventure through Pike National Forest. This route spans 7.3 miles (11.8 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 1800 feet (549 metres), taking approximately 4 hours and 11 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll pass through varied landscapes, from dense pine forests to open mountain meadows, with impressive granite outcroppings marking the way. Keep an eye out for Horsethief Falls, a notable landmark along the path, and enjoy the changing scenery as you ascend.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with convenient parking available at the Crags Trail Campground, which also serves as the trailhead. Be aware that this is a popular route, especially during peak seasons, so you might encounter other hikers. Dogs are welcome to join you on the trail, provided they are kept on a leash for their safety and the comfort of others. Consider starting early to secure parking and enjoy the quieter moments of the morning.

As you approach The Crags, the terrain opens up, rewarding your efforts with expansive mountain vistas. You'll be treated to views of iconic peaks like Pikes Peak and the distant Sangre De Cristo Mountains, offering a grand sense of scale. This trail provides a diverse experience, showcasing the natural beauty and ruggedness of the region, making it a rewarding day out for those seeking a substantial hike.

Embark on the difficult Shelf Road / Gold Belt Tour, a challenging hiking route that stretches for 26.7 miles (43.0 km). You will gain 621 feet (189 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 11 hours and 44 minutes. This trail immerses you in dramatic scenery, winding through canyon walls and revealing striking limestone cliffs and vibrant red rock formations. As you hike, you'll encounter deep canyons, with some parts of the route perched 200 feet above the streambed. Keep an eye out for unique geological features like "Window Rock," a distinctive square hole in a rock formation, and enjoy expansive views of the distant Sangre de Cristo mountain range.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Shelf Road is also a scenic drive, so you will share the route with vehicle traffic. The trail surfaces can be uneven, and some sections may be steep, requiring careful footing. If you plan to drive to specific trailheads along the route, a four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially during wet conditions. Always check current conditions before you head out, as certain areas along the route may offer limited shade.

This route offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty within the BLM - Royal Gorge Field Office area. Beyond the dramatic geological formations, you will traverse high desert plateau environments dotted with juniper shrubs and pinyon pines. The trail also provides an opportunity to explore Historic Downtown Cripple Creek, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure. This combination of rugged landscapes and historical sites makes the Shelf Road / Gold Belt Tour a notable experience in the region.

Explore the Pony Gulch Homestead trail, an easy hiking route that immerses you in natural beauty and history. This pleasant outdoor experience covers 2.0 miles (3.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 39 feet (12 metres), taking about 52 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll encounter golden aspens and rugged, pine-covered cliffs, particularly vibrant during the fall season. Be sure to visit the Lookout Point for scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible. You should find parking available directly at the trailhead, making for an easy start to your adventure. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for hiking this route. However, it's always wise to check local conditions before you head out, as mountain weather can change quickly and unexpectedly.

The trail offers a unique blend of natural and historical elements within the Pike-San Isabel National Forests. Beyond the natural scenery, you can discover the remnants of an old homestead, including what appears to be a house and barn. These historical features provide a fascinating peek into the area's past, adding an extra layer of interest to your hike.

The Pancake Rocks Trail offers a challenging hike through Pike National Forest, leading you past diverse forests of pine, spruce, fir, and aspen. You will gain 1561 feet (476 metres) in elevation over its 6.1 miles (9.7 km) length, a difficult journey that typically takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete. As you ascend, look for sections that open up to wide views of distant mountain ranges and the distinctive layered sandstone and granite formations known as the Pancake Rocks, which are the highlight of this route.

When planning your visit, remember that the trailhead is accessible from Highway 67. This is a popular route, so an early start is highly recommended to secure parking, especially on busy days. If you plan to hike in winter, be prepared for snowpack and ice, which are common conditions that often require you to bring spikes or snowshoes for safe passage along the trail.

This trail is notable for its unique geological features, particularly the Pancake Rocks themselves, which resemble stacked circular stones. Beyond these formations, you might also catch glimpses of Pikes Peak's south slopes and Sentinel Rock. Keep an eye out for willow-lined beaver ponds and, if you visit in late summer, you may see wildflowers adding color to the landscape, enhancing the natural beauty of your hike.