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    Lookout 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.
    3-4h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    7.4 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.
    596 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 Lookout Mountain Hike is a stunning woodland adventure on the eastern boundary of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Trek along Horse Creek and through the towering pines up to the Front Range lookout at the summit. This is an epic introductory adventure to Colorado summit hikes.

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    Route Description for Lookout Mountain Hike

    The Lookout Mountain Hike guides adventurers through the verdant Colorado woodlands up to an epic overlook. This adventure demands stamina as you will be ascending high elevations. This experience is reserved for experienced hikers who are acclimated to the area’s high altitude, but don’t let us discourage you, the stunning views from the top make up for the effort required. We highly recommended wearing microspikes in the autumn and winter to help navigate the icy and snowy terrain. Note that because this path is located within the Rocky Mountain National Park visitors are required to purchase a park pass.

    Embark on your adventure up to Lookout Mountain from the trailhead at the end of 113N. From here, track northwest along Horse Creek. Shortly after your departure, you will confront a junction, stay right here. At the next intersection, you will want to turn left up the woodland path. Ascend the steep terrain through the vibrant, towering pine trees. As you trek, you will be rewarded with sparse views of the Colorado wilderness between tree breaks. Eventually, you will intersect with Horse Creek before navigating a set of switchbacks. Continue up the path, passing Horsetooth Peak before ascending Lookout Mountain.

    From Lookout Mountain, you will be rewarded 360-degree, panoramic views of the snow-capped Front Range peaks that hem the verdant woodlands below. Enjoy the scenery and notice the granite spires that sit atop Horsetooth Peak. Rest, refuel and admire the grandeur of the wilderness before retracing your steps back along the path to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Lookout Mountain Hike Trailhead

    The Lookout Mountain Trailhead is located at the end of 113N off State Highway 7.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      April-October

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Poor

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Lookout Mountain Hike Elevation Graph

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    Lookout Mountain Hike Reviews

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