First and Third Mondays. We will notify if the date changes due to weather or other circumstances.
Red Rock Canyon OS
TRAILHEAD: Section 16 Trailhead on Gold Camp Road
Driving Directions: There is parking for 16 cars at the trailhead, plus about 8 more cars ~200 ft further west on the opposite side of the road. You are welcome to arrange carpooling on your own - we won't do carpooling as a group because this location is so close to central Colorado Springs.
HIKE START TIME: 10:00 AM. Please arrive at the Trailhead by: 9:45
Contact the hike leader if you would like to go on this hike. Also, please provide: (1) your cell phone number in case of last-minute changes and (2) the name & phone number(s) of your emergency contact in case of medical or other emergency.
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: Moderately challenging
HIKE DESCRIPTION: It consists of sections and snippets of 8 or 9 different trail routes, all located in the southwestern-most corner of Red Rock Canyon Open Space. It includes a short section of the Palmer Red Rock Loop (most of which is located in what used to be Manitou Section 16, which I believe is all part of Red Rock Canyon OS now). About half of the hike route follows the rims of red rock canyons. The hike length is just under 4 miles and the actual elevation gain (lowest altitude to highest) is about 400 ft. However, there are many short, not very steep ups and downs which cumulatively bring the total elevation gain closer to 800 ft. For this hike, the surface is almost entirely well-packed dirt. There are some loose and embedded rocks along much of trail, with a few very short boldering sites and slickrock areas, all of which we found pretty easy to navigate. It just takes a little longer than you would expect, if you're only looking at a map.
HIKER PREPARATION/EQUIPMENT: This being winter in Colorado, we are watching the weather closely. The current forecast at the trailhead for next Monday is quite nice for now (low 50s, mostly sunny, wind ~9 mph). Check the forecast before the hike and dress accordingly. We find clothing layers usually work best for changing conditions. Bring a hat and other sun protection, as well as rain gear if rain is forecast (none currently). Hiking boots/shoes and hiking poles are pretty much a must for this hike. There are portable toilets at the trailhead
PETS: Dogs are OK with us but please be candid about whether your own dog does well with other dogs and people (and sometimes other hikers, bicyclists, and horses) moving along in both directions on a narrow trail.
We are providing hike length, elevation gain, and estimated difficulty so you can judge your comfort level. We stay together as a group and leave no hiker behind. If you have questions about the hike, please contact the hike leader by email or telephone.
Dan Zeddies - 719-659-6714 - dzeddies@zoho.com