Hell’s Hole 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.
4-5.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.9 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.
583 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

Hell’s Hole Hike is a demanding but stimulating hike through forested valleys. This adventure is reserved for those who don’t mind scrambling up rocky terrain and who enjoy a bit of a challenge. This woodland trail is a wonderful day hike through the mountainous landscape.

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Route Description for Hell’s Hole Hike

Hike along the soft forest floor, carpeted with aspen foliage, before summiting a rocky ridge at the base of one of Colorado’s 13ers. The Hell’s Hole Hike is a crowd favorite because it is the perfect balance between strenuous and scenic. The entirety of the trail gradually ascends towards the turnaround point, so pack plenty of water because you will surely break a sweat. Additionally, if you plan to hike in the autumn or winter months, microspikes and trekking poles are a must to navigate the slippery, rocky terrain. We recommend checking the weather before you embark on your adventure to avoid any afternoon storms and bring layers to withstand the hike’s windy conditions.

Start your hike along the Hell's Hole Trail from the trailhead. From the trailhead, track south along the Hell’s Hole Trail. Hike along the trail as it guides you into a lush aspen grove. Climb up the path and you will shortly enter into the Mount Evans Wilderness. Hike along the forested aspen valley and it will eventually level out and the terrain will become increasingly rocky. As the aspens thin out you will be transferred into pine woodlands. Trek along the route until you reach the timberline.

At this point you will be rewarded with sights of alpine willow meadows and an up-close and personal view of Gray Wolf Mountain. Enjoy the grandeur of the rocky mountain and rest prior to your descent down the trail. When you are ready, simply retrace your steps along the path all the way back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Hell’s Hole Hike Trailhead

This adventure begins at the Hell’s Hole Hike Trailhead at the end of West Chicago Creek Road. Note the West Chicago Creek Road is subject to seasonal closures.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    West Chicago Creek Campground

  • When to do

    March-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Extreme

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Hell’s Hole Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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