Backpacking Adventure in Idaho Springs 🎒
Details
Backpacking Adventure!
🍂 Join us for a beautiful October trail!
🗓️ Trip Overview
🥾 Hell’s Hole Trail: 1-Night Backpacking Itinerary
Trail: Hell’s Hole Trail #53
Location: Mount Evans Wilderness, Colorado
Distance: Approximately 9.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,900 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Trailhead: West Chicago Creek Road, 8 miles southwest of Idaho Springs, CO
Permit: Free self-issue permit required for overnight stays (available at the trailhead)
Pets: Allowed on a leash
Camping: Dispersed camping permitted along the trail
Fire: Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings or grills at established campsites; if camping in a dispersed area, use a camp stove or fire pan. Always ensure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving.
There is a parking lot at the trailhead capable of holding “maybe 20-25 cars.
In winter, parking is more limited: there’s mention of ~15 parking spots at the trailhead, with some overflow along the road.
The road (West Chicago Creek Road / FS-188) is dirt / gravel. Some parts (particularly toward the end) are one lane with pullouts and switchbacks. Since it is next to a campground, shouldn’t be too technical.
All trails:
Hells Hole Trail on AllTrails
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/hells-hole-trail?sh=xf4ekk&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality
🐾 Dog Friendly!
Leashed, well-behaved dogs who are trail-capable and friendly are welcome. Owners are fully responsible for their dogs.
🌄 Come enjoy a beautiful high-country adventure with a friendly group of hikers. Great for anyone ready for a moderate challenge, big views, and mountain vibes!
🎒 Recommended Backpacking Gear:
🏕 Shelter & Sleep
Tent + footprint 🏕️
Sleeping bag (20°F / -6°C) 🛌
Insulated sleeping pad 💤
👕 Clothing (Layer Up)
Base layer & hiking pants 🥾
Fleece / down jacket 🧥
Waterproof jacket & pants 🌧️
Warm hat & gloves 🧤
Extra socks 🧦
Hiking boots 👟
🍲 Food & Cooking
Backpacking stove + fuel 🔥
Lighter / matches 🕯️
Lightweight meals + snacks 🍫
Water bottles / 2–3 L 💧
Water filter / treatment 💦
🧭 Navigation & Safety
Map / GPS 🗺️
Headlamp + extra batteries 🔦
First aid kit 🚑
Sunglasses & sunscreen 🕶️☀️
🐻 Other Essentials
Trekking poles (optional) 🏔️
Bear bag / food storage 🐾
Trowel & toiletries 🚽
⚡ Tips
Layering is key 🧥
Expect cold nights ❄️
Rain / snow possible 🌨️
Reach camp before dark ⏰
🐾 If Bringing a Dog
Leash (required)
Dog food & bowl
Poop bags (pack it out)
Sleeping pad/blanket for dog
Plenty of water or purification option
🛠️ Optional but Recommended
Knife or multi-tool
Power bank
Notebook/pen
Camera or binoculars
Trash bag (pack out all waste)
Earplugs (for windy nights or snoring neighbors)