Colorado mountain town living is synonymous with easy access to a multitude of world-class hiking trails. With seemingly unlimited acres of accessible national forest and towns built around trail systems, getting out and hiking, biking, or trail running is just a way of life! Georgetown is surrounded by an abundance of trails, ranging in difficulty from a few hundred feet elevation gain over just a few miles (basically within town limits), to epic local conquests of some of Colorado’s famed 14,000’ peaks: hikes that can take you hours into the wilderness over many miles with enormous vertical gain. Everybody has their own unique preference, whether they are a casual hiker or aspiring ultra-marathoner, but the sky is (literally) the limit! Here are our favorite trails of all shapes and sizes, all easily accessible from Bighorn Crossing.
1.8mi, 679’ gain
Above photo courtesy of AllTrails user Filip Tomas – This is the local’s trail, with a trailhead in downtown Georgetown, a low mileage with medium gain, and consistent water access. Hike along a creek the entire time to find seasonal whitewater and small waterfalls. As it's right in town, the Rutherford Trail is quite popular year-round, so start early to avoid crowds.
2.2mi, 236’ gain
Head a few easy minutes up the hill on Hwy 381 to find this low-mileage out and back trail. Get away from the crowds and find gorgeous seasonal wildflowers and scenery. With just 236’ of elevation gain, the Silverdale Heritage Trail is perfect for a casual walk in the woods for those looking for a less intrepid adventure.
4.1mi, 1,066’ gain
Above photo courtesy of AllTrails user Marcus B – Ramping up the intensity level, the trail to Silver Dollar Lake is an out and back trail with amazing vistas and plenty of water access, all less than 20 minutes from Bighorn Crossing. The hike is very popular, so leave early for good parking and a more intimate experience. Also, make sure to follow any seasonal closures (that goes for all trails: always check for seasonal closures due to elk migrations or road conditions).
8.0mi, 1,912’ gain
With a name like “Hell’s Hole,” you might think that you want to stay away, but this trail is anything but skippable. Beware deep snow access in the winter, but during the less snowy months this trail is gorgeous, easy to navigate, and worth the few minute drive from downtown. The elevation gain in the first few miles gave it its devilish moniker, but the juice is worth the squeeze. At 8 miles roundtrip, it’s a great workout without occupying an entire day.
8.1mi, 3,622’ gain
Above photo courtesy of AllTrails user Tommy Cauthen – Gray’s and Torrey’s aren’t as close to Georgetown as the previously listed trails, but it’s basically right around the corner, and we would be remiss not to include it in our list of favorite nearby trails. This is one of Colorado’s 53 famous peaks over 14,000’ in elevation. Be aware of the popularity of these 14ers and get a head start to beat the crowds, but you will certainly understand why these summits are so sought after. The sense of accomplishment from climbing to 14,000’ is palpable in the thin air. We call it the “Summit Stoke!”
5.2mi, 2,112’ gain
Though less mileage and vertical gain than Gray’s and Torrey’s, this 14er trail is the most exposed (the trail is narrow and adjacent to many cliffs) and is rated as difficult. Beginning innocently enough at the Summit Lake Parking for Mount Evans, the trail rides a ridge all the way to 14,271’. Even with its difficulty, you will be hiking alongside other outdoor enthusiasts looking to check off another Colorado 14er. The expansive views from the ridgeline are constant, and combined with the physical accomplishment, this hike is unforgettable!
No matter your fitness or tolerance for adventure, the trail systems in and around Georgetown will suit your every need. Of course, our little guide is just a tiny taste of the hundreds (thousands?) of other local trails available for public use. You could spend a lifetime wandering in the Arapahoe National Forest. Grab a map and let your imagination run wild with adventurous lust, all located right in your backyard.
Immerse yourself in everything that Georgetown has to offer—make it your home! Bighorn Crossing Townhomes are right in the middle of all of this outdoor wonder, with luxury 2- and 3-bedroom units, gear closets, and modern finishes. Click here to get more information or join the waitlist below!