Posts Tagged: black hawk

Colorado / Near Denver — No Comments
29
Jun 09

Black Hawk Peak

Went up to the Black Hawk Peak area today. Summited the peak, hiked all around the old town area near Wideawake, and up to the Old Kentucky Mine. Conditions were perfect; great weather, dry trail, no ATV’s.

In my 5+ years of hiking the beautiful and historic Gilpin high country in Arapahoe National Forest around Fairburn mtn., Black Hawk Peak, and the old town of Wideawake, I have NEVER encountered another hiker, and only once encountered an ATV rider. I think it’s interesting how hikers often gravitate to the most crowded areas possible, such as Rocky Mountain National Park, but don’t go anywhere near the equally scenic National Forest areas. Fine with me, I love the peace and solitude, but you’re missing out.

There is a summit register on top of Black Hawk Peak, I don’t know why I didn’t see it the last time I was there. Be sure to sign it if you go.

For those of you who enjoy hiking to old ghost towns and the like, this hike is so much better than the Eugenia or Lulu City hikes. Be sure to check it out.

You can download tracks for this hike at: http://www.selecthikes.com/harder-hikes/84-historic-black-hawk-peak-area

Near Denver — No Comments
2
Jun 09

Centennial Cone Mayhem Gulch / Juniper Loop

Today I hiked a great loop in Centennial Cone of just over 4.5 miles. There is a trailhead with parking off of route 6 a couple miles west of tunnel 3.

The hike looked like it would be very steep from the trailhead, but it is actually very gentle thanks to excellent trail design.

To hike the loop, just proceed up Mayhem Gulch Trail until it intersects with Juniper Trail. Stay to the RIGHT here, continuing on Mayhem Gulch Trail. Eventually the trail will intersect with Travois Trail (the mountain biking loop). Turn left at the intersection and after a couple hundred feet you will see the intersection with Juniper Trail. Take Juniper Trail back to Mayhem Gulch Trail, and continue down Mayhem Gulch trail back to your car.

While we were hiking this trail, we noticed a rocky cliff area with a striking waterfall, I’m sure you will see it and hear it as well if the water is flowing. From the far end of the parking lot we discovered a faint trail to the base of the waterfall. It’s worth checking out if you feel up to it.

I have added a full description and GPS tracks to the SelectHikes.com web site. Click here for the trip report: Mayhem Gulch Trail