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Grizzly Creek Trail: A Glenwood Canyon Gem

Hike along the scenic Grizzly Creek Trail in Glenwood Canyon, offering stunning views and a peaceful escape into nature.

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Grizzly Creek Trail, nestled in Glenwood Canyon near Glenwood Springs, Colorado, offers a scenic hiking experience alongside a rushing creek. This 7.9-mile trail provides stunning views and a peaceful escape into nature, though parts were affected by the 2020 Grizzly Creek Fire.

A brief summary to Grizzly Creek

Local tips

  • Check the White River National Forest website for current trail conditions and closures before heading out.
  • Bring water and wear appropriate footwear, as the trail can be rocky and steep in sections.
  • Leash your dogs and pack out their waste to help preserve the natural environment.
  • Be aware of potential hazards such as falling rocks, stump holes, and flash floods, especially after the 2020 Grizzly Creek Fire.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or summer to enjoy the colorful wildflowers along the trail.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Glenwood Springs, drive east on I-70 for approximately 7 miles. Take Exit 121 for Grizzly Creek Rest Area. The trailhead is located on the north side of the highway, adjacent to the upper parking lot. Parking is available in the rest area, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. There is no fee to park.

  • Biking

    Bike along the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path, which runs parallel to I-70. Access the path from Glenwood Springs and cycle east towards the Grizzly Creek Rest Area. The Grizzly Creek Rest Area is located on the west end of the Glenwood Canyon bike path. Once at the rest area, park your bike and proceed to the trailhead on the north side of the highway. E-bikes are a popular option for exploring the Glenwood Canyon Trail. Bike rentals and shuttles are available in Glenwood Springs.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to the Grizzly Creek trailhead, you can take a bus to Glenwood Springs. From there, you could use a taxi or rideshare service to reach the Grizzly Creek Rest Area and trailhead, which is about 7 miles east of Glenwood Springs. Taxi/rideshare could cost approximately $20 - $30 for the short trip from Glenwood Springs to the Grizzly Creek Rest Area.

Unlock the Best of Grizzly Creek

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Discover more about Grizzly Creek

Grizzly Creek Trail is a popular hiking destination located in the dramatic Glenwood Canyon, just east of Glenwood Springs. The trail, set within the White River National Forest, offers a beautiful alternative to the nearby Hanging Lake Trail. While it may not have a quick payoff like Hanging Lake, the journey along the rushing Grizzly Creek is a rewarding experience in itself. The 7.9-mile out-and-back trail generally takes over four hours to complete, with an elevation gain of 1,847 feet. The path meanders along the creek, treating hikers to spectacular views of towering cliffs and lush vegetation. The clear, cold water originates from snowmelt on the Flat Tops, making it a prime location for fishing. The first half-mile of the trail is relatively level, offering ideal spots for a scenic picnic by the creek. Further along, the trail narrows and becomes rockier, surrounded by dense greenery. The last 1.5 miles are steeper, covered with loose rocks, and provide rewarding views of both Grizzly Creek and Glenwood Canyon. Note that much of the area was affected by the Grizzly Creek Fire in 2020. Hikers should be aware of the increased risk of falling rocks, stump holes, and flash flooding. As of May 2025, the Grizzly Creek Trail is closed about 0.3 miles from the trailhead at the picnic tables due to reconstruction work. Despite the fire's impact, the trail remains a worthwhile destination for those seeking a moderate hike in a stunning canyon setting.

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