Mount Bethel Trail

Ready to do some bushwhacking? Though the Mount Bethel Trail is primitive and unmarked, it is a lovely excursion. Hike along a forested path before the trail opens up to a rocky scree field up to the summit. Bask in incredibly beautiful vistas of the surrounding wilderness and appreciate the quiet route. A trail GPS is always a good insurance in case you get off-track on this primitive adventure. Make sure you are wearing hiking boots because the rocky talus field is an ideal location to roll an ankle. Ensure to pack plenty of water because the elevation gain is packed in this short trail.

Start your adventure from the end of the dirt road. Past the metal gate you will see the trail. Hike along the edge of the I-70 until the route diverts you up a forested valley. Hike northwest along the creek that runs through the rocky gorge. Continue tracking along the creek until it begins to diverge west, away from the trail. Here, you will divert east and begin ascending a rocky meadow to the summit. This section is steep and exposed. Trek northeast along the open plains and mind your footing on the loose rocks that line the trail. The route will begin to curve east and the elevation will intensify as you navigate the talus field to the summit. Climb up the steep path to crest the summit of Mount Bethel.

Revel in the expansive and uninterrupted views from the summit. In the northwest you will see Pettingell peak and in the west, The Citadel. If you are feeling adventurous, climb over the rocky pass to The Citadel on the Continental Divide. If you are ready to return back to the car, simply retrace your steps down the route all the way back to the trailhead.