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HIKE DESCRIPTION: This hike is in Red Canyon Park, just outside Cañon City and follows the relatively newly constructed gravel and smooth rock Chipeta's Way Loop Trail. This trail provides extensive views over rock formations and ridgelines, as well as open plains, providing many photo opportunities.
The trail climbs 200 feet from the Chipeta's Way trailhead in about 1 mile, before leveling out for a further mile, and then has a couple of 100 feet descents and climbs over the next mile before descending via switchbacks to the Trailhead and parking. Hiking poles are recommended, brings snack and plenty of water. There is little shade on most of the trail.
HIKE DISTANCE: 4.2 miles (with short side trips to overlooks)
ELEVATION GAIN: 741 feet
HIGHEST ELEVATION: 6,541 feet
HIKE DIFFICULTY RANGE (est): Moderate
TRAILHEAD NAME/LOCATION: Chipeta's Way Trailhead is located at the first pit toilet you come to. Turn right before the toilet over a small gravel covered concrete bridge about 300 yards past the equestrian parking area. Then immediate left in front of the toilet to access the parking area. Co-ordinates 38.58622°N 105.249°W (see image attached)
OPTIONAL MEETING PLACE FOR CARPOOLING: For those that wish to carpool , it is suggested that you meet at Safeway, 6520 S Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs. (at CO Hwy 115/Nevada Ave So & South Academy Blvd), south side of parking lot furthest from the building). Coordinates: 38.7664504, -104.8148818. We will try to group carpoolers by those who may want to go to lunch after the hike and those who want to get back directly to theSafeway meeting place. Please arrive by 7:25 a.m - we depart for Trailhead at 7:40 a.m. The scenic drive south to theTtrailhead takes about 1 hour 5 minutes. Please be sure to tell hike leader whether you plan to meet the hiking group at this Optional Meeting Place for Carpooling or at the Trailhead (above).
HIKE LEADERS: Julie and Geoff Moore
Email: jkrakauer@gmail.com
Phone: 978-505-9335 (Julie)
Email: geoffpmoore@gmail.com
Phone: 7816986248 (Geoff)
Please contact hike leader by the day before the hike if you would like to go on this hike. Please provide your first and last name, your cell phone number for any last-minute changes, and an emergency contact if available. Please be sure to tell hike leader whether you plan to meet the hiking group at theTrailhead or at the optional meeting place for carpooling.
TRAIL SURFACE & GENERAL CONDITION: Dry, gravel, smooth sandstone
CURRENT TRAIL CONDITION: When pre-hiked on March 31, trail was dry and in good condition.
WEATHER: Before the hike, check weather forecast for the hike area & dress accordingly, including a hat & other sun protection, plus rain gear if rain is forecast. Clothing layers for expected temperature range & wind usually work best.
HIKER PREP/EQUIPMENT: Bring plenty of water - on a hot sunny day 2+ liters recommended. Hiking boots/shoes & hiking poles should be considered mandatory for this trail. Note there is very limited cell phone service for navigation or contacting leaders. If you intend to use a GPS tracking app like COTREX or AllTrails, download the base maps for the area before you leave Cañon City.
DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO TRAILHEAD (from car pooling location): On Google Maps, find the Location "Red Canyon Park, Co Rd F24, Cañon City, CO" and click on GET DIRECTIONS leaving from Your Location to the park. Or, see attached PDF.
RESTROOMS: A single pit toilet is located at the Trailhead. Bring toilet paper and a flashlight as there are no windows (or door lock).
DOGS: OK - bring leash
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