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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
262 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-2.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail is an awesome day hike near the Twin Lakes that exhibits the diversity and beauty of the Colorado wilderness. This stunning nature walk guides adventurers through the verdant evergreen woodlands interspersed with vibrant aspen groves and luxuriant meadows. This wonderful excursion presents the perfect excuse to get the whole family out into the fresh air.

Route Description for 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.

Insider Hints for Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail

  • Grab a cappuccino at City on a Hill Coffee after your adventure
  • Charge up your camera because this amazing trail warrants plenty of photo opportunities
  • Head down to the Twin Lakes to cool off or participate in some recreational activities
  • Trade your hiking boots for snowshoes in the winter months to enjoy this stunning trail year-round

Getting to the Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail Trailhead

The Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail departs from the trailhead off County Road 24 near the Lakeview Campground.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Lakeview Campground

  • When to do:

    June-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Circuit

Bartlett Gulch Loop Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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