West Ridge Trail, Wow, What a Hike!

West Ridge Trail, wow, what a hike! At the top of Loveland Pass. I thought I’d seen the best views before from high alpine hikes but not like this.

Think you need pine trees for an exciting Colorado hike? Well, no you really don’t. This hike is exhilarating.

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TRAILHEAD

At the top of Loveland Pass is a pull-off area for parking, you can’t miss it. Across the street is a set of stairs … don’t be intimidated! They are steep but you can do it and it’s worth it.

This is West Ridge Trail (I did not see a trail sign) but this was it.

At the top of the stairs, it gets steeper again but for a short uphill climb then levels off to an amazing hike that is easy going.

SUMMIT

Just at the summit we found most turned around after taking in the views but we continued on the trail going across the ridge top.

Views of Keystone Ski Resort and then beyond to Breckenridge Ski Resort on our left were thrilling.

Views down the valley on our right were impressive, amazing, breathtaking … simply incredible. Hiking across the ridge top was an easy flat trail.

A trail you want to be prepared for with appropriate hiking gear. At high altitudes, dehydration plus fickle weather is always something to consider.

CLICK HERE> for a look at Practical gear that we love at Crazy About Colorado and have in our backpacks on every hike

WINDY

But the wind was at times terrifying! Big gusts that seemed to take you right off the ground. However, we did stay rooted and keep ongoing…

Bring extra outdoor gear, even in summer. I actually put on my down coat, the wind was chilly.

At the very end of the trail, we came upon this rocky area which at first we almost skipped. DON’T SKIP IT! Gotta see the other side…

Views of the Loveland Ski Area are on the other side of the rocks. You can see the chairlifts and upper buildings. I was so excited looking down on the Loveland Ski area which holds some of my most precious memories.

One of my favorite hikes of the season. Come on a clear day and I encourage you to go past the summit and take in all West Ridge Trail has to offer.

Even first-time hikers … West Ridge Trail can be done!

Be mindful of the high altitude on this trail if new to Colorado or visiting. Would not recommend if not acclimated to areas above 10,000 ft.

Watch for ever changing Colorado weather above tree line. Comes in fast and furious at times. Head back down quickly at the earliest signs of rain, lightning, sleet, or snow.

ADD this to your day! Loveland Lakes Trail, it’s just down the road and an easy hike around 3 alpine lakes.

LOCATED

Top of Loveland Pass, Colorado

TIDBITS

Rated: Moderate

2.8 miles out and back

Elevation: 11,990 ft

No restrooms

No trees

Dog friendly

Nearest Town: Dillon CO or Georgetown CO

TRAILS NEARBY

Herman Gulch Trail, Bakerville, CO

Mayflower Gulch, Summit County, CO

Native Lake Trail. Leadville, CO

Booth Lake Trail, Vail, CO

Drop a comment below for any questions. Share your adventures with me. I’d love to hear from you, HAPPY TRAILS…

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