Mayhem Gulch Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-3h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.6 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
243 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Mayhem Gulch Hike is a crowd-favorite in the Golden area, and we understand why! This unassumingly scenic adventure exposes epic vistas of the Clear Creek Canyon, the Centennial Cone, and the encompassing mountainous landscape.

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Route Description for Mayhem Gulch Hike

The Mayhem Gulch Trail is a wonderful day hike just outside the Denver area. Adventure through the luxuriant meadows that reveal expansive views. This trail is a popular adventure among the outdoor enthusiast community, so be prepared to share the trail. This path is so popular that there is a unique usage system. You can only hike on the odd-numbered weekend days because even numbered weekend days are reserved specifically for bikers. If you hike on the wrong day, be prepared to pay a fine. Note that this path travels through arid terrain, so be mindful of rattlesnakes as you trek.

Embark on your adventure along the Mayhem Gulch Trail from the trailhead. From here, the Mayhem Gulch Trail immediately ascends steep terrain, but don’t let it discourage you, the path will become increasingly level and incredibly scenic. Navigate the switchbacks up to the intersection. From here, keep left and you will be diverted onto the Juniper Trail. From the west side of the path you will be granted epic views of the canyon below and Front Range foothills. Hike along the grassy plains, and at the next junction, keep right, merging onto the Mayhem Gulch Trail.

Follow the Mayhem Gulch Trail which reveals views of Golden and the Centennial Cone. Continue along this route which will eventually deliver you back to the first intersection. Here, veer left and retrace your steps down the switchbacks to the trailhead.

Getting to the Mayhem Gulch Hike Trailhead

The Mayhem Gulch Trail departs from the trailhead off Clear Creek Canyon Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    March-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Mayhem Gulch Hike Elevation Graph

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Mayhem Gulch Hike Reviews

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