Lookout Mountain Hike

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.