The best walks and hikes in Lost Creek Wilderness

Embark on the Shaft House via Goose Creek Trail, a moderate hiking route spanning 4.6 miles (7.5 km) with an elevation gain of 803 feet (245 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 13 minutes, navigating through a landscape rich with unique red granite rock formations and towering boulders. As you follow Goose Creek, you will encounter lush forests and picturesque spots, making for a rewarding outdoor experience.

Before you head out, be aware that the road leading to the trailhead can be quite washboarded, so prepare for a bumpy drive. Self-issue permits are required at the trailhead, so make sure to pick one up before you begin your hike. While the trail is generally accessible, some sections can be steep, so wear appropriate footwear and be ready for varied terrain.

This route offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue within the Lost Creek Wilderness. The trail leads you to the historic Shaft House, a notable landmark, and also highlights the intriguing point where Lost Creek re-emerges as Goose Creek. Keep an eye out for Harmonica Arch and consider the fishing and wading opportunities along Goose Creek as you explore this distinctive area.

Embark on a challenging hike along Colorado Trail: Segment 5, a difficult 13.9-mile (22.3 km) route that guides you through diverse landscapes. You will traverse rolling hills, open fields, and dense forests of pine and aspen, crossing streams and ascending into high meadows. Expect to gain 1625 feet (495 metres) in elevation, with the journey typically taking around 6 hours and 21 minutes to complete, offering expansive views of South Park and the Continental Divide from points like the Kenosha Pass Overlook.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as Kenosha Pass provides convenient highway access and free parking, making it an ideal starting or ending point. While water sources like Rock Creek are generally available, their reliability can decrease later in the season, so plan to carry enough water. Be aware that some sections, particularly between miles 3 and 5, have experienced significant tree fall, which might make navigation more challenging.

This segment of the Colorado Trail is notable for its stunning autumn display, especially near Kenosha Pass, where abundant aspen trees transform the landscape with vibrant fall colors. The route offers a true taste of the Pike National Forest's varied ecosystems, from its lower elevations to its higher, more exposed sections. It provides a rewarding experience for hikers seeking a substantial day on a well-known long-distance trail.

Embark on the Hankins Pass Trail, a moderate hike spanning 6.4 miles (10.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1821 feet (555 metres). You can expect to spend around 4 hours and 8 minutes exploring its diverse landscapes. The route winds through dense forests, opens into pleasant meadows, and passes vibrant aspen groves. Look for interesting granite outcroppings and rocky ridges that define the terrain. From Hankins Pass itself, you will find expansive vistas, including views of the distant Collegiate Peaks and Lizard Rock.

If you plan an overnight trip, dispersed campsites are available along the trail, particularly between the Goose Creek Trailhead and Hankins Pass. Be aware that autumn and winter conditions can bring snow and ice to the route. During these colder months, trekking poles and microspikes are recommended to help with traction. The trail is open to hikers, horseback riders, and trail runners, offering varied ways to experience the area.

This trail offers a rewarding journey into the Lost Creek Wilderness, showcasing Colorado's natural beauty. In late September, the aspen groves along the route transform into a spectacular display of color, making it a particularly scenic time to visit. The varied terrain and the expansive views from the pass highlight the unique character of this wilderness area.

Embark on the Brookside-McCurdy, McCurdy Park, Goose Creek, and Wigwam Loop, a difficult hiking adventure through Colorado's Lost Creek Wilderness. This extensive route covers 28.2 miles (45.4 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 4822 feet (1470 metres). You can expect to spend around 14 hours and 45 minutes completing this challenging trek, passing through dense pine forests, open meadows, and aspen groves. Keep an eye out for the striking granite crags in McCurdy Park and the unique sections where Lost Creek disappears underground.

This demanding loop requires a good level of fitness and thorough preparation. Be ready for potential water crossings, which can vary in depth depending on recent rainfall. The remote nature of certain areas, especially McCurdy Park, means you should be self-sufficient and prepared for diverse conditions. Always carry enough supplies and plan your start time carefully to ensure you have ample daylight.

The trail offers a deep dive into the distinctive geology of the Lost Creek Wilderness, showcasing unique rock formations and the intriguing behavior of its namesake creek. You will also witness areas of forest regeneration, where new growth emerges against the backdrop of past wildfires. This route provides panoramic views from high-altitude meadows, highlighting the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains.