After-Work Hike: Apex Park (Enchanted Forest Trail)
Details
~5.6 miles RT (may be slightly more depending on our return route)
Elevation Gain: ~1,450 ft.
Weather looks great for Wednesday, which means we need to get a hike in before the rain comes back =) With the vast majority of the Boulder area hikes still closed due to mud, I thought it would be a great time to try out this great network of trails in the foothills of Golden. With a trail name like Enchanted Forest we can’t go wrong. Scenery we can expect includes a creek lined with cottonwoods, a profusion of wildflowers, and other forest-y goodness. We will plan to take the Apex trail to the Enchanted Forest Trail, and then can either head back on the Apex trail or link a series of shorter trails together to get back to the TH (depending on time available). I have never done this hike before, but the park map is very straightforward, and I will upload the map ahead of time on my phone GPS just for good measure. Please have looked at the trail map prior to coming on this hike in order to familiarize yourself with the area. Each hiker needs to be self-sufficient in being able to get back to their cars in case you are separated or decide to turn back. Remember that organizers are not professional guides; we do this because we love to hike =) Bring headlamps for the hike down, and expect mud (though the ranger said it’s currently not that bad on this one). Be sure you are able to handle the stated elevation gain and distance. Really looking forward to exploring this park with you guys!
http://www.thecohiker.com/colorado-hiking-trails/colorado-front-range/apex-park---enchanted-forest
The trail map is available on the main park page:
https://jeffco.us/open-space/parks/apex-park/
~ Please remember to bring your $1 event fee. This offsets the fee I am charged each month for being an organizer, as well as all of the ongoing planning that goes towards keeping our merry group afloat. We need everyone to chip in this small amount if this group is to stay viable. Those that feel this does not apply to them will unfortunately be removed from the group in favor of more gracious members. Thank you all so much for your help!
~ Per Jeff County guidelines, dogs are allowed but must be leashed. These trails are shared with bikers, so leashes are necessary.
~ As with other groups, 3 strike rule is in full force. It is not fair to cancel at the last minute when the waitlist has so many people eager to attend. If you no-show or give less than a full 24 hours notice (and very preferably 48), that is a strike. ALSO, IF YOU ARE ON THE WAIT LIST, please remember to keep your status updated. If you make other plans, kindly take yourself off of the waitlist so that others who are able to come might attend.
Directions to TH: Please use a combination of google maps and the directions posted on this page to get you to the TH. The Location link at the top of the page is pre-loaded into Meetup, and I cannot vouch for it’s accuracy.
East Access: 18301 W. Colfax Avenue, Golden (Next to Heritage Sq.)
On the northeast corner of the Heritage Square Shopping Center parking lot. Enter from County Road 93/Heritage Road just before its merger with US Highway 40/West Colfax Avenue. We will meet in the upper (larger) lot.
After-Work Hike: Apex Park (Enchanted Forest Trail)