Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain Trail

The trail is generally rated as moderate for jogging. While the distance is relatively short (around 3.7 to 4.25 miles round trip), it features a consistent uphill grade with approximately 800-900 feet of elevation gain over a short distance. The high starting elevation of around 10,500 feet and a summit of 11,486 feet can make it strenuous, especially for those not accustomed to the altitude. Good fitness is recommended.

The trail primarily follows a wide, two-track dirt or gravel fire service road. It's generally easy to navigate, but expect a consistent, moderate incline. In winter, it can be covered in deep, pock-marked snow, making footing tricky and potentially requiring snowshoes or Nordic skis. During summer, a high-clearance vehicle might be able to drive part of the way up, though many choose to jog the entire route from lower parking.

The lower sections wind through forests, but as you ascend and get above the tree line, particularly around the halfway point, the views become increasingly spectacular. The summit offers exceptional panoramic vistas of the surrounding Rocky Mountains, including Mount Blue Sky, the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Evergreen, Idaho Springs, and on clear days, even Denver and Pikes Peak to the south and Rocky Mountain National Park to the north. Don't miss the views from the Mestaa’ėhehe Lookout Tower.

The trail is located off CO Route 103 near Idaho Springs. Many people park lower down the service road and jog the entire route. The Chief Mountain Trailhead is a common starting point.

Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Be aware that a shooting range is located near the start of the trail, so gunshots may be heard.

The trail is accessible year-round. Summer and fall offer pleasant conditions for jogging with wildflowers in bloom and potential for mushrooms in autumn. In winter, the trail can be covered in deep snow, making it suitable for snowshoeing or Nordic skiing, but requiring appropriate gear.

As part of the Arapaho National Forest, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required for day use of this trail. However, always check the official USDA Forest Service website for the most current regulations and any potential changes before your visit.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Mestaa' Ehehe Pass Central Road, Chief Mountain Trail, and Warren Gulch Trail.

The most significant feature at the summit is the Mestaa’ėhehe Lookout Tower, an old fire lookout that offers excellent 360-degree views and is even available for rent overnight. The trail also offers opportunities to see wildflowers and mushrooms, and provides panoramic mountain views as you ascend.

The peak was renamed in 2021/2022 from its previous name (Squaw Mountain) to honor Mestaa’ėhehe, also known as Owl Woman. This significant Cheyenne woman from Colorado history is recognized as part of an effort to remove derogatory terms from place names and acknowledge indigenous heritage.

Yes, due to its manageable distance and significant elevation gain, the Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain Trail is often recommended as an excellent route for acclimatization to higher altitudes, especially for those planning more strenuous climbs in the Rocky Mountains.