Trip Details

Meet at "the hub" parking lot in Cheyenne Canyon above Helen Hunt Falls. It's eight miles from downtown CS but is a steep, winding road so it takes about 20 minutes. Expect icy conditions in the shade and planned construction may result in rough roads and other changes. https://goo.gl/maps/EwS1PT8zXYESyA9Y7

Andy Lyon, 710.650.3043 or andyslyon@msn.com

New to the Colorado Springs hiking scene and/or winter/spring hiking? Then let this moderate six-mile loop be an introduction. The route follows (the closed) Gold Camp Road west then climbs back steeply east on the Mount Buckhorn Trail to meet Trail 667 (Captain Jack’s). A tad more climbing and we’ll descend to meet the (also closed) High Drive for a gentle final mile back to the cars. Even at a moderate pace and with time for views/breaks, this can be completed in under three hours, leaving plenty of time for other Sunday activities. Traction devices (micro-spikes or Yak-Traks, etc.) will be a must since we can expect some or all of this trail to be snow-packed/icy. Following the hike and if weather allows, anyone inclined can caravan down Gold Camp Road to experience the historic railroad tunnels. We’ll find a pull-out to enjoy some outdoor socializing and hot beverages/lunch/snacks.

Meet at 8:20 for a 8:30a.m. start from "the hub" parking area above Helen Hunt Falls (about a quarter mile further up the road). Questions? Contact the leader Andy Lyon, text/cell 719.650.3043 or andyslyon@msn.com. If spots are available on 3-6 and you want to join us, contact me directly at that number.

The parking area becomes very busy on weekends and has been the site of vehicle break-ins. Lock your car and do not leave anything that even appears to be valuable, in plain site.