Herman Gulch Trail: A Rocky Mountain Ascent
Hike through wildflower meadows to a pristine alpine lake on this popular trail in Arapaho National Forest, just an hour from Denver.
Herman Gulch Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through wildflower meadows and up to a stunning alpine lake in the Arapaho National Forest. Located an hour west of Denver, it's a popular destination for those seeking a quick escape into Colorado's backcountry.
A brief summary to Herman Gulch Trailhead
- Herman Gulch Trail, Dillon, Colorado, 80435, US
- +1303-567-3000
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot fills quickly.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly at high elevations.
- Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes.
- Be prepared for wind and cooler temperatures at the lake.
- Visit in July for the best wildflower viewing.
Getting There
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Driving
From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 218. Turn right at the stop sign after exiting. Then, turn right again onto the frontage road. The large dirt parking lot for the trailhead will be visible. Parking is free. Be aware that the lot can be very crowded on weekends, so arrive early.
Discover more about Herman Gulch Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District
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Explore the Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.
Colorado Central Mill
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Discover the rich mining history of Colorado at the Colorado Central Mill, a captivating historical landmark surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
St Mary's Glacier Trailhead
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Cozens Ranch Museum
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Uncover the intriguing history of Granby, Colorado at Cozens Ranch Museum, a perfect blend of heritage, community, and exploration.
Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant
27.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine in Breckenridge at the Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant, where local flavors meet mountain charm.
Country Boy Mine
28.2 km
Discover the rich history of gold mining at Country Boy Mine in Breckenridge, Colorado, where adventure meets the past in a stunning mountain setting.
A & A Historical Horseback Riding
28.3 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Central City, Colorado, with A & A Historical Horseback Riding – an unforgettable adventure awaits!
Breckenridge Recreation Center
28.3 km
Discover the ultimate recreational experience at Breckenridge Recreation Center, featuring a gym, swimming pool, and rock climbing wall in the heart of Colorado.
Chief Mountain
28.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Chief Mountain, a stunning peak in the heart of Colorado's majestic Rockies.
Moving Mountains - Breckenridge
29.1 km
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Breckenridge Heritage
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Breckenridge History: Briggle House
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Mimi & Pin churros and donuts
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Experience the sweetness of Breckenridge at Mimi & Pin, home of delicious churros and donuts in a cozy café atmosphere.
BreckConnect Gondola
29.3 km
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Epic Discovery at Breckenridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
Loveland Ski Area
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Loveland Pass
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Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Loveland Pass, a high mountain pass on the Continental Divide in the Colorado Rockies.
Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels
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Drive through the Continental Divide! Experience an engineering marvel at the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel on I-70, just west of Denver.
Pettingell Peak
5.2 km
Conquer Pettingell Peak: A challenging Front Range hike with rewarding panoramic views and a touch of solitude near Denver.
Chihuahua Lake
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Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead
7.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead, an outdoor lover's paradise in the heart of Colorado's stunning wilderness.
Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead
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Hike two iconic 14ers in one day, experiencing breathtaking alpine views from the Grays and Torreys Peaks near Silver Plume, Colorado.
Butler Gulch Trailhead
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Grays Peak
8.3 km
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Argentine Pass
10.6 km
Conquer Colorado's highest vehicle-accessible pass for stunning views & a thrilling off-road adventure through historic mining country.
Georgetown Loop Railroad & Mining Park - Silver Plume Depot
11.2 km
Experience Colorado's mining history on a scenic narrow-gauge railway between Georgetown and Silver Plume. A historic and family-friendly adventure awaits!
Georgetown Loop Railroad
12.6 km
Journey through Colorado's mining history on a vintage train, traversing the scenic Georgetown Loop Railroad between Georgetown and Silver Plume.
Lime - An American Cantina
13.0 km
Keystone's lively cantina with a wide selection of tequilas, hand-shaken margaritas, and delicious Mexican-American dishes in River Run Village.
100 Dercum Square
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A charming park in Keystone's River Run Village, offering year-round activities, stunning views, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Keystone Bike Park
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Experience the rush of mountain biking at Keystone Bike Park, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in Colorado's Rockies.
Essential places to dine
Soupz On
28.9 km
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Oaxacan bites
29.1 km
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Blue River Bistro
29.2 km
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The Canteen Tap House and Tavern
29.3 km
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Rootstalk Breckenridge
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The Carlin Breckenridge
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Tavern Underground
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Salt Creek Steakhouse
29.4 km
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Breckenridge Tap House
29.5 km
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Tin Plate Pizza
29.5 km
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Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon
29.5 km
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Giampietro Pasta & Pizzeria
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The Gold Pan Saloon
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Bird and Cow
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Hearthstone Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sunshine Herb Corner
27.0 km
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Local Experience
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Bottle Pass Liquors
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Discover a diverse selection of wines and liquors in Fraser, Colorado at Bottle Pass Liquors – your local destination for fine spirits.
Safeway
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Explore Safeway in Fraser, CO - your go-to grocery store offering fresh produce, local specialties, and quality services for every traveler.
Breckenridge Ski & Sport
28.4 km
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Lace and Lariat
29.3 km
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A Racer's Edge
29.4 km
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Simply Breck
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Breckenridge Shirts & More
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Towne Square Mall
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Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet
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Slope Style Ski + Bike
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The Shop On Main Street
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Arctic Attitude
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Mountain Style
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gravity Haus Winter Park
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Randi's Grill & Pub
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Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
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Prospector
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Fireside Lounge
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Ski Town Chicken Joint
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The Absinthe Bar
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Molly Jacks
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Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
29.9 km
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Burke and Riley's Irish Pub
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Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
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Experience Breckenridge's nightlife at Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar, where cocktails and dancing blend for an unforgettable evening.
Base Nine
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Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
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Shakedown Bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vail at Shakedown Bar, where live music and great drinks create unforgettable memories.
Bridge Street Bar
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Discover the lively nightlife at Bridge Street Bar in Vail, Colorado, where great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await you.
