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    Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead 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.
    4-6h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    14.8 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.
    545 m
    User Ratings
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    Directions to Trailhead

    Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead Hike is a scenic adventure up a forested gulch to a meadow dotted with historic homesteads. History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike will be impressed by this scenic trail. Hike through the beautiful Colorado greenery alongside a creek, up beneath an aspen grove to the ruins set against a mountainous backdrop. This hike checks all the boxes.

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    Route Description for Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead Hike

    Add the Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead Hike to your Colorado adventure list. This excursion is an ideal day hike for those seeking something other than a summit hike. We love aspen trees, and this trail delivers. Hike beneath the towering vibrant aspens and along the Lion Gulch Creek to the Irvin Homestead. This particular Homestead is the most intact amongst the other ruins that litter the Homestead Meadows. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the intriguing remains of the historical log homesteads. Note there are steep segments of the path along the gulch; if you are wearing sturdy footwear, you should have no issues navigating the rocky terrain.

    Embark on your historic excursion up the Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead via the Lion Gulch Trailhead. From the trailhead and parking lot, the Lion Gulch Trail will guide you over the Little Thompson River and across the Lion Gulch Creek. Hike up the path under tree shade and along the edge of the babbling creek. As you traverse the trail, you will intersect with the creek on several occasions. Note there are no bridges, but the stream is narrow and shallow, and there are plenty of great creek hopping rocks. Continue up the rocky terrain as you travel through the aspen groves and eventually ascend the timberline and pass Griffith Homestead.

    At the intersection, take the Griffith Homestead Trail northwest before turning onto the Irvin Homestead Trail at the next junction. Explore what remains of the Irvin Homestead and the sawmill across the trail. Time travel back to 1917 as you immerse yourself in the narrative of what used to be the Irvin Homestead. When finish exploring, retrace your steps along the trail back to the parking lot.

    Getting to the Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead Hike Trailhead

    The Lion Gulch Trailhead is located off US Highway 36.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Dispersed Backcountry Camping, restrictions apply.

    • When to do

      April-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead Hike Elevation Graph

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    Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead Hike Reviews

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