Create an account

Start your adventure today.

    0

    Already a member? Login

    South Chicago Creek 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.
    7.9 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.
    594 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

    Hike up the South Creek Trail to a stunning overlook of a mountain cirque. This forested hike is beautiful and if you don’t mind off-roading a bit, we know you will enjoy it. Compared to other paths in the Mount Evans Wilderness, the South Chicago Creek trail is secluded, perfect for those seeking to distance themselves from the crowds. On your next trip out to the Mount Evans Wilderness make sure to add the South Chicago Creek Hike to your itinerary.

    Download the 10Adventures App

    View South Chicago Creek Hike on Map

    View Map

    Join our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Route Description for South Chicago Creek Hike

    Hike through the Mount Evans Wilderness on the Chicago Creek Trail. Trek up to the overlook where views of the surrounding peaks and alpine lakes below await you. This primitive trail does require some navigation and trailblazing. We recommend bringing along the trail GPS to help you maneuver the unmarked sections of the path. As you travel up the forested valley, we can almost guarantee that you will see some wildlife, be it moose, elk or a bear. Enjoy these majestic creatures from a distance but do snap some pics! This wonderful day excursion is manageable for most hikers, but it is worth noting that it climbs all the way to the lookout, so your legs will be feeling it.

    Lace up those hiking shoes and grab your water, it’s time to head out into the wilderness. From the trailhead, follow the South Chicago Creek Trail southwest. From the parking lot this trail will guide you below the treeline. Hike up the steep grade before the incline becomes increasingly gradual. Trek up the aspen and pine mixed forest and keep an eye out for wildlife. Climb up the route and enjoy the meditative ambiance that the South Chicago Creek creates. Hike along the babbling creek as you gradually ascend the ridge. Eventually, you will summit the timberline and views of the mountainous landscape will overwhelm you.

    From the rocky ridge, notice the Chicago Lakes below in the south and Gray Wolf Mountain over the ridge. Revel in the grandeur of the mountain cirque and see fellow adventurers hiking below. When you are ready, simply retrace your footsteps all the way back to the parking lot.

    Getting to the South Chicago Creek Hike Trailhead

    The South Chicago Creek Hike is located off Hefferman Gulch Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Dispersed Backcountry Camping, restrictions apply.

    • When to do

      Year-Round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Poor

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    South Chicago Creek Hike Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    South Chicago Creek Hike Reviews

    Add a comment

    You must be logged in to post a comment.

    Nearby Trails

    Nearby Regions

    Get travel inspiration and discounts

    Join our weekly travel newsletter