Windy Peak Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
3-4.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.5 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.
496 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Adventure through the stunning Golden Gate Canyon State Park as you hike the Windy Peak Trail. This hike is a scenic adventure that exhibits the diversity of Colorado’s ecosystems as it treks through meadowlands, forests, along creeks and up to the summit of Windy Peak. Reserved for adventurers with some experience under their belt, this summit hike demands stamina as it ascends all the way to the scenic overlook.

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Route Description for Windy Peak Hike

The Windy Peak Trail is a charming walk that weaves through verdant woodlands and arid meadows. This hike also presents the perfect opportunity to spot wildlife grazing, like deer and moose. Perfect as an introductory summit hike in the Front Range, the Windy Peak Trail will challenge you, but won’t over exhaust you. We suggest wearing layers as the exposed peak and various terrain warrants changing weather conditions, so it’s best to be prepared. Note that this path is located within the limits of the State Park, so visitors are required to purchase a day pass, which typically costs around $10USD.

Embark on your adventure along the Windy Peak Hike from the Burro Trailhead. From here, track the leftmost Burro Trail, hiking up through the pine forest, interspersed with vibrant aspens. Eventually, you will encounter an intersection, keep left here and you will be diverted up the Mountain Lion Trail. Follow the Mountain Lion Trail up to the Forgotten Valley Campground and Tallman Ranch, which sits in an exposed basin.

At this point, the route will guide you up a forested valley, through a few switchbacks, and up to another junction. Here, turn right and hike the Burro Trail before merging onto the Windy Peak Trail—delivering you to the summit. From here enjoy sights of the Mount Evans Wilderness’ peaks and other snow-capped Front Range summits. Take a break, rest your tired feet, and to get back to the trailhead, retrace your footing along the path.

Getting to the Windy Peak Hike Trailhead

The Windy Peak Hike departs from the Burro Trailhead off Drew Hill Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Forgotten Valley Campground

  • When to do

    March-November

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Windy Peak Hike Elevation Graph

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