Horseshoe Loop Trail

The Horseshoe Loop Trail is a must-add to your Denver itinerary. Reconnect with nature and let go of the stressors of the real world as you adventure through the beautiful Colorado wilderness. This path also presents the perfect opportunity to spot wildlife, so keep an eye out! As this route weaves between tree shade and exposed terrain we recommend wearing layers as insurance against changing weather conditions. Note that because this trail is located within the bounds of the Golden Gate Canyon State Park, visitors are required to purchase a day pass which typically costs around $10USD.

Begin your journey along the Horseshoe Loop Trail from the trailhead off Crawford Gulch Road. You can choose to complete this adventure from either direction, but we prefer to hike this one clockwise. From the trailhead, track the Black Bear Trail beneath the timberline. As you travel along this path, you will be rewarded with expansive views of the Front Range foothills and on a clear day, sights of the snow-capped Front Range peaks. Eventually, you will confront an intersection, stay straight and hike northeast along the Mule Deer Trail. Now passing through the meadows, keep an eye out for deer and elk.

At the next junction, turn right onto the Horseshoe Trail, passing several dispersed campsites. Keep left at the next two intersections, maintaining the same trail. The Horseshoe Trail will guide you southeast down a forested gulch. At the next junction, keep right onto the Black Bear/ Horseshoe Connector Trail, which will deliver you back to the trailhead.