Poplar Gulch Hike

Get your steps in for the day – actually make that the whole week – when you hike the Poplar Gulch Trail. This scenic, secluded adventure is perfect for those seeking to escape the crowds that draw typical woodland hikes in the Sawatch Mountain Range. A fairly well-kept secret, this amazing trek exhibits the beauty of the lush woodlands and epic mountain views from an exposed ridge. Note: there are steep sections of the path, so make sure you are wearing sturdy footwear and take breaks as needed. Furthermore, make sure you are acclimated to the area’s altitude before commencing this journey.

Embark on your adventure along the Poplar Gulch Hike from the trailhead, then head north along the Poplar Gulch Trail. Soon after your departure you will be confronted with a set of switchbacks, but don’t get discouraged, the epic views are well worth the effort! Follow the forest route along melt water streams and through golden aspen groves. You will eventually graduate the timberline into an alpine tundra as you near the pass. Navigate the vertiginous terrain to the top of the ridge and revel in the expansive mountain views, including Mount Princeton in the east!

Appreciate the grandeur of the wilderness, then continue along the trail to descend the pass. This route will guide you down into the South Cottonwood Canyon and to the northern Poplar Gulch Trailhead. If you have a ride or left your car here, you can wrap up your adventure. If not, simply retrace your footing along the path all the way back to the trailhead.