Poplar Gulch Hike
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Table of contents
Surround yourself in a sea of golden aspen trees as you venture the Poplar Gulch Trail. This exciting hike travels through a diversity of terrain and up to an exposed ridge above the treeline, before dipping down into a scenic canyon. Reserved for intrepid spirits, this long trek demands stamina and preparation.
Route Description for Poplar Gulch Hike
Get your steps in for the day – actually make that the whole week – when you hike the Poplar Gulch Trail. This scenic, secluded adventure is perfect for those seeking to escape the crowds that draw typical woodland hikes in the Sawatch Mountain Range. A fairly well-kept secret, this amazing trek exhibits the beauty of the lush woodlands and epic mountain views from an exposed ridge. Note: there are steep sections of the path, so make sure you are wearing sturdy footwear and take breaks as needed. Furthermore, make sure you are acclimated to the area’s altitude before commencing this journey.
Embark on your adventure along the Poplar Gulch Hike from the trailhead, then head north along the Poplar Gulch Trail. Soon after your departure you will be confronted with a set of switchbacks, but don’t get discouraged, the epic views are well worth the effort! Follow the forest route along melt water streams and through golden aspen groves. You will eventually graduate the timberline into an alpine tundra as you near the pass. Navigate the vertiginous terrain to the top of the ridge and revel in the expansive mountain views, including Mount Princeton in the east!
Appreciate the grandeur of the wilderness, then continue along the trail to descend the pass. This route will guide you down into the South Cottonwood Canyon and to the northern Poplar Gulch Trailhead. If you have a ride or left your car here, you can wrap up your adventure. If not, simply retrace your footing along the path all the way back to the trailhead.
Getting to the Poplar Gulch Hike Trailhead
The Poplar Gulch Hike is accessed via the trailhead off Forest Road 267-Tincup Pass.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
Dispersed Backcountry Campsites
When to do:
July-October
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Poplar Gulch Hike Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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