Hells Hole Trail

The Hells Hole Trail is generally considered demanding and strenuous, with a significant elevation gain of about 1,900 to 2,000 feet over its 8-mile round trip. While the initial mile alongside West Chicago Creek might offer a softer forest floor suitable for jogging, the trail quickly becomes rockier and steeper. It's more suited for a vigorous hike with interspersed periods of jogging rather than a continuous, easy run, especially for beginners.

The trail starts with a steady climb through extensive aspen groves, featuring a soft forest floor. After the first mile, it transitions to rockier sections, though less steep. As you continue, you'll enter a pine forest, eventually reaching the tree line around 11,500 feet. The destination, Hell's Hole, is an open meadow with alpine willows.

The route is approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) long. For jogging, it's estimated to take around 1 hour and 53 minutes, but this can vary significantly based on your fitness level and the challenging terrain.

The trail is particularly beautiful in the fall when the aspen trees display vibrant colors. However, its high elevation means it can be enjoyed during the warmer months, typically late spring through early fall, to avoid snow and harsh winter conditions.

Yes, the Hells Hole Trail is located within the Mount Evans Wilderness, which requires a free self-issuing permit. These permits are available at the trailhead. As part of a wilderness area, visitors are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles, and specific regulations regarding group size, campfires, and pets may apply. For detailed regulations, you can check the USDA Forest Service website.

The trail starts at the West Chicago Creek Trailhead. This trailhead is located near Idaho Springs and Georgetown, Colorado. Parking is available at the trailhead itself.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Hells Hole Trail. However, as it's within the Mount Evans Wilderness, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste, to protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

You'll follow West Chicago Creek through extensive aspen groves and pine forests. The trail culminates at Hell's Hole, a subalpine glacial cirque at the base of Gray Wolf Mountain, offering impressive views of an open meadow with alpine willows and often a small pond.

Given the trail's difficulty, elevation gain, and rocky sections, it's advisable to wear sturdy trail running shoes with good grip. Layers of clothing are recommended due to changing temperatures at higher altitudes. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a map or GPS device. A first-aid kit is also a good idea.

The Hells Hole Trail is primarily an out-and-back route, leading to the Hell's Hole cirque and returning the same way.

The trailhead is located near the towns of Idaho Springs and Georgetown, Colorado. These towns offer various amenities such as cafes, restaurants, and accommodations, which can be found a short drive from the West Chicago Creek Trailhead.