Chief Mountain Trail is a great beginner summit hike. It’s a decent climb, right from the start for 1.5 miles while gaining 1000 ft in elevation. 360-degree views at the summit rival those of Colorado’s 14ers.
Once you do this trail, you’ll be excited to do more high-altitude hikes on the substantial peaks!
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We opted for a short day hike and this trail surpassed our expectations. Surprisingly beautiful hiking through thick shaded spruce and fir-lined forest, then breaking tree lines into the open air and our first views of Mt. Evans and the Continental Divide.
VIEWS BEGIN
The alpine terrain on rocky terrain is a complete change from where we just came from. The trees are dwarfed and gnarly as we hike up. We’ve turned east on the trail wrapping around Chief Mountain before starting up to the summit. The trail has gotten rocky leaving the path not as defined as on the hike up.
Looking closely at the alpine tundra, tiny purple and white flowers are covering the landscape.
The rock taluses and pine-laden trees were splendid. I am amazed at how quickly we’ve made it to the treeline and have such incredible views on a hike this short. An added treat found in select areas of Colorado is the scattered ancient rare bristlecone pines.
ON TO THE TOP OF CHIEF MOUNTAIN SUMMIT
Hiking up a couple of switchbacks through talus and scattered trees we are on our way to the top.
Up ahead rocky, scraggly outcroppings to navigate through to reach the summit of Chief Mountain. A bit of a scramble but fairly easy and forgotten when reaching the top!
CHIEF MOUNTAIN SUMMIT
Mt. Evans right before our eyes…
And the Continental Divide. Breathtaking…
Views of Longs Peak 14er, Grays and Torreys 14ers, the James Peak area, and Indian Peaks Wilderness in one direction and views as far south as South Park, Lost Creek Wilderness Area, and Pikes Peak 14er. (it’s a clear day at the moment so our views were unparalleled).
YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY!
Booth Lake Trail – Vail, CO
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Inter-Laken Trail – Twin Lakes, CO
Within 30 minutes the clouds started to build up and it was not long before we heard thunder from afar. When we first arrived at the trailhead it was clear blue skies.
Not to be taken lightly. It’s a high altitude trail, dehydration plus fickle weather is always something to consider even on a short hike. CLICK HERE> for a look at Practical gear that we love at Crazy About Colorado and have in our backpacks on every hike.
Time to go down. Lightening in Colorado is nothing to mess with. My favorite hikes are hiking above treeline and my biggest fear is lightning. Makes me a weather fanatic, always checking before I go and getting up there early.
We made it before the rain and this hike is just a reminder of how quickly the weather changes at high elevations.
It’s unusual to have such remarkable views and such a high peak so close to the foothills with the added bonus of scrambling rocks to reach the summit. Want to empress your visitors coming to Colorado, this will do it.
With this short hike, add Summit Lake Park (sensational) and Echo Lake Lodge Gift Shop (known for their pies) to end your day just up the road.
PARKING
There isn’t a parking lot at the trailhead and it’s easy to miss, The signpost is tucked in the trees. A large patch of pavement for parallel parking is available with limited parking on the side of the road. You’ll see other cars there (maybe) otherwise it’s just past the Echo Mountain Ski Area if coming from Evergreen (12 miles up 103) or it’s just before the Echo Mountain Ski Area if coming from Idaho Springs on 103.
TIDBITS
3 miles out and back
Rated: moderate
Trail #58
Elevation start: 10,800′ gain: 1,000′
No restrooms
Family friendly
Open to leashed dogs, hiking, snowshoeing
Arapaho National Forest
Clear Creek Ranger District
LOCATED: on Squaw Pass Road (103) heading to Mt. Evans from Evergreen and south on 103 from Idaho Springs heading to Mt. Evans. Either way, you come. Look for mile marker 18, Echo Mountain Ski Area, and a small sign that says, Chief Mountain Trail.
Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).
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