Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail

​The Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail is a great adventure for those acclimating to the area’s elevation prior to a technical summit hike, or simply for those seeking a relaxing woodland nature walk. This lovely excursion travels through diverse terrain, so we suggest wearing layers as insurance against changing conditions. As you are traveling through forestlands, it is important to be mindful of wildlife and consider wearing a bear bell to deter unwelcomed encounters. When the snow falls, trade your hiking boots for snowshoes or microspikes to safely navigate the likely icy and snow-packed terrain.

Escape into nature and let the fresh alpine air fill your lungs along the Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail. This stunning excursion is the perfect route that exhibits the quintessential Colorado topographies from snow-capped craggy summits, shimmering alpine lakes, luxuriant meadowlands, and verdant woodlands. With limited elevation gain and manageable terrain, the Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail is a wonderful excursion for novice hikers and families with small children alike. Acclimate to the area’s elevation along this trek before attempting a more technical summit expedition.

Begin your journey along the Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail from the trailhead off County Road 24. From the trailhead, the route can be completed from either direction, but we prefer to hike counterclockwise! Keep right and hike along Mount Elbert Road. Traveling through an open meadow, hikers will be granted awe-inspiring views of Mount Cosgriff in the west and Mount Elbert in the northwest. Continue wandering this route and you will be guided beneath the shade of towering pine trees and vibrant aspens. As you hike, the trail will intersect with several alpine streams before arriving at another junction.

At the intersection, take a sharp left down Colorado Trail Segment 11. This path will divert adventurers southeast through the lush woodlands before confronting another junction. From here, there is a small break in the trees, which reveals stunning sights of the Twin Lakes below. Veer left to continue hiking along the Colorado Trail Segment 11. This path will eventually begin to near the campsites, which is where hikers will have to diverge from the beaten path, hiking northeast back to the trailhead, marking the end of your adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs permitted on the Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail?

Yes, on-leash pups are permitted on the Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail.

Where do you park when hiking the Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail?

Visitors can park at the trailhead off County Road 24 or at the Lakeview Campground.