Continental Divide Overlook via Fowler to Rattlesnake Gulch Loop
Details
Length: 6.4 mi
Elevation gain: 1095 ft
Route type: Loop
Generally considered a moderately challenging route.
THERE IS NO PARKING CHARGE, AS WE WON'T BE IN A LOT. BRING YOUR CO. STATE PARKS PASS, THOUGH, IN CASE WE'RE ASKED TO PROVIDE IT.
***BRING YOUR SPIKES FOR TRACTION; POSSIBLE ICY AREAS ON TRAILS***
This is a gorgeous hike, with amazing vistas throughout the trail system.
Starting from the Fowler Trail Head, the route takes you two miles until it enters the canyon, before climbing as it joins Rattlesnake Gulch Trail. The views are spectacular throughout this hike, including those west towards the Continental Divide (the best vistas are just past the official lookout) and back east down the canyon. We'll also explore the historic Crags Hotel ruins. Built in 1908, visitors would reach it by rail from the canyon floor; the hotel burned down in 1913. There is a placard with further information at the site.
DIRECTIONS:
We'll meet at the Fowler Trail Head, which is adjacent to where we'll park, along CO RD 67 (no parking lot at the TH). FROM HWY. 93, TURN WEST ONTO ELDORADO CANYON RD. AND FOLLOW IT APPROX. 3 MILES TO CO RD 67, (YOU'LL SE A LARGE, BLUE YOGA ASHRAM SIGN ON YOUR LEFT); YOU WILL TURN LEFT ONTO CO RD 67 AND FOLLOW IT FOR APPROX. ONE MILE TO WHERE IT DEAD-ENDS AT THE FOWLER TRAIL HEAD. PARKING IS ALONGSIDE THE ROAD.
TRAIL ROUTE:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/continental-divide-overlook-via-fowler-to-rattlesnake-gulch-loop
I may adjust the dates depending on weather as we get closer to the date.