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    Kelso Mountain 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.
    3.5-5h
    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.
    708 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Kelso Mountain Hike is an awesome introductory summit hike in the Front Range. Short, sweet, but steep, this path is a real leg-burner. Leave the city and its stressors in the rear-view mirror and head out into the wilderness. Explore the quintessential Colorado terrain and revel in the stunning vistas.

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    Route Description for Kelso Mountain Hike

    Satisfy your inner adventurer and travel up the primitive Kelso Mountain Trail. If you don’t mind off-roading, then we would recommend trekking the Kelso Mountain Hike. Bring the trail GPS along to mitigate the chances of taking a wrong turn in the Arapaho National Forest. This primitive trail is a secluded adventure in the otherwise trafficked trails of the Front Range. Note that parking for this path is limited. If you want to secure a parking spot, we recommend arriving early. Additionally, check the weather prior to setting out to avoid inclement weather at the summit and wear plenty of layers to keep warm.

    Embark on your adventure from the path signposted: Grays Peak Trail. Hike this path past several historic mines and along Quayle Creek. The trail will then divert you under tree coverage and away from the creek. Hike up the rocky terrain through the woodlands. Eventually, you will meet back up with the creek and encounter a junction. At this point, the route will be exposed and windy. At the intersection, take a hard right up the primitive, unmarked, Kelso summit trail. Hike up the path along the rocky ridge.

    Track northeast and you will summit Kelso Mountain. From the summit, enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the encompassing snow-capped peaks. Appreciate the scenery and take a break prior to beginning your descent. When you are ready to return to the trailhead, retrace your steps along the route.

    Getting to the Kelso Mountain Hike Trailhead

    The Kelso Mountain Hike is located at the end of Stevens Gulch Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Dispersed Backcountry Camping, restrictions apply.

    • When to do

      June-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Poor

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Kelso Mountain Hike Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    Kelso Mountain Hike Reviews

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