Woods Mountain via Watrous Trail is packed with incredible 360-degree views — a beautiful hike on Watrous Trail, then eye-popping views on the push to Woods Mountain at 12,940′ elevation.
Trail Stats and Map Located at the Bottom.
Watrous Trail is stunning, with aspen trees lining the trail to start the hike until sweeping views of high peaks appear ahead.
Watrous Trail Meanders through meadows, with a creek alongside and a gentle breeze in the late summer sun. It’s the perfect day to head above the tree line. The skies are clear, a good sign to go higher.
Osprey Backpacks – My favorite
Counter Assault Bear Spray – Be safer!
Going higher means a steeper trail! It’s glorious up here; hiking through the tundra shows early fall colors of red and gold. The higher we go, the more mountain peaks appear.
When we reached the saddle, Mt. Parnassus (13,580′) was to our right. We did that last fall > Watrous Trail to Mt. Parnassus.
Woods Mountain (12,940′) is left of the saddle, and different views await us. Steep, narrow trail and we are on the summit.
Words are hard to describe the majestic 360-degree views of mountain range after mountain range reaching miles away in all directions, leaving me giddy with joy. It’s sensational!
There is a brisk wind, and it’s chilly up here, even though just a few steps down the mountain, it will be warm again.
We spent a lot of time figuring out what mountain range that is: James Peak Wilderness, Rocky Mountain National Park, up Loveland Pass, and even beyond towards the Gore Range.
HotHands Hand Warmers – I have these in my backpack year-round, especially when I hike at high elevations.
NUUN Electrolyte Tablets – I add these to my water on every hike to keep hydrated.
SKRATCH LABS Energy Bars – Easy way to keep up your calories and energy while hiking at higher altitudes. They also have excellent Sport Energy Chews.
Six Moon Design Hiking Umbrella – Super lightweight and my newest addition that I have used often!! It keeps the sun off you and keeps me dry in rain and sleet.
Woods Mountain is an excellent choice for views that rival 14ers with minimal crowds and big rewards — loved it.
Back into the trees, it’s a gentle yet long trek getting back to the trailhead and parking lot. You will still have a fantastic hike if you do Watrous Trail and do not continue onto the saddle and Woods Mountain.
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TIDBITS
Watrous Gulch Trailhead is located at Herman Gulch Trailhead
Approx: 6.8 miles out and back
Rated: Strenuous
Nearest Town: Georgetown
Portable Potties at Watrous Trailhead
Leashed dogs ok
HIKES NEARBY
Can't wait to see you on the trail!
