Hike Independence Mountain Trail at Pence Park

Summertime heat and Fourth of July week! People are traveling and have holiday plans so let's celebrate with a short and early hike since it's going to be 80⁰ in the City! This will be our first 8am start time for the summer season!

We'll start in Pence Park, a Denver Mountain Park in Jefferson County located in Bear Creek Canyon near Kittredge. We'll hike on the Independence Peak Trail in Pence Park for \ ~3.5 miles RT and 800 feet of elevation gain to the overlook. Plan on spending time at the summit!

The trail up to Independence Peak starts from the parking area and switchbacks up the hill facing the parking lot. The first part of the trail is clear but keep an eye out for a switchback to the left, but not the first left. The first left takes you up to a small lookout and back to the parking lot. Stay on the main trail and make the second left, this one a bit tricky to spot. From here the trail climbs through dense forest crests the hill, and levels out.

About .5 mile in to the trail we'll come across an Aspen grove and a view of the rocky summit ahead. The trail leads to a rocky outcropping which involves a scramble up to reach the summit. Once on top we'll be rewarded with a 360 degree view and a decent view of Mt. Evans. We'll head back the same way we came and add the short loop back towards the parking.

Optional add on into O'Fallon Park if you want to make your hike a total roundtrip of 5+ miles between the two parks. I won't be doing this part but feel free if you want the miles! Here's a trail map you can follow (my custom route on CoTrex) https://trails.colorado.gov/routes/181624

Dog Free Hike... Please leave your baby dogs at home for Baby Boomer Hikes. Thanks!

What to bring: Please come prepared with appropriate hiking clothing, waterproof boots, backpack, snacks, and water. Make sure you have in your pack in case you need it - personal first aid kit, rain gear, hat, gloves, extra socks, and extra layers, etc. Always check the weather forecast for the trailhead before you leave home. Make it the best experience possible by being prepared!

Bring water and a festive snack to enjoy at the summit. There are restrooms at this trailhead.

Carpooling: Arrange carpools from your neighborhood or decide on a good carpool meeting location. Only 15 parking spaces at Pence Park!

Directions to Trailhead: Meetup directions different than mine! Choose directions that work for you! Pence Park is a Denver Mountain Park up Bear Creek Canyon near Kittridge. From Morrison take Bear Creek Road (74) west. Pass Corwina Park, and O'Fallon Park and make a left (south) on Meyers Gulch Road. Head up the hill and the trailhead and parking area will be on the right. There are 15 parking spots so please carpool.

Important Note: This is a participate at your own risk event! Life is risky.

I am not a professional guide. By signing up for this hike you acknowledge that you are solely responsible for your own safety and enjoyment.

See you there!