Elk Meadow Park

Trip

Hiking – Elk Meadow Park - Bergen Peak

We will do an out-and-back hike from Lewis Ridge Trailhead to the top of Bergen Peak via Too Long Trail, enjoying some great views of Elk Meadows Park and the surrounding area as well as Denver and the Front Range along the way. This is a fun training hike for those preparing for higher elevation summer hiking. A link to the route map is in the leader's notes below. Priority will be given to dues-paying RMOTHG members. Non-RMOTHG members are welcome to participate on a space-available basis. Please email the trip leader if you are not a RMOTHG member but would like to join the trip.

  • Moderate, moderate
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 10.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 9,701 ft
  • Pace: Casual Plus

Pace is casual plus.  We won't be setting any speed records, but we will plan to move at a steady pace with minimal breaks.

Click here for a detailed route map.  Please note that this particular route has been chosen to AVOID traversing Bergen Peak State Wildlife Area, which would require each member of our group to have a paid SWA permit.

Depending on trail conditions and the pace of the group, this hike may take up to seven hours.  Our goal will be to complete the hike and return to the trailhead by 4pm at the latest.  Do, however, be prepared for the unexpected and plan for the possibility that this may be a longer outing.

Bring your 10 essentials, trekking poles, plus sufficient water, snacks, lunch, and appropriate layers for a variety of weather conditions.

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Along the front range, the Rocky Mountain Over the Hill Gang (RMOTHG) is considered the group to join if you’re over 50 and looking for outdoor activities, camaraderie and adventure! With over 900 members participating in year-round outdoor and social activities, you’re sure to find something that fits your schedule and your comfort level. (Rocky Mountain Over the Hill Gang — The Colorado Mountain Club (cmc.org)  

We will meet at 8:15am to carpool from the Wooly Mammoth Parking Lot BB, 18560 US-40, Golden 80401, to Lewis Ridge Trailhead.  Click here for driving directions.  We will plan to arrive at Elk Meadows Park in time to begin our hike at 9am.

Keep an eye out for a pre-trip email with additional details on Tuesday 5/14.

Outhouses are available at the trailhead parking lot.

NOTICE: The Lewis Ridge Trailhead parking lot at Elk Meadow Park is currently undergoing instruction to improve drainage and parking capacity.  Visitors may experience reduced parking.  Please allow work crews the right of way and be cautious when entering the work zone. 

Route/Place
Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Bring your 10 essentials, trekking poles, plus sufficient water, snacks, lunch, and appropriate layers for a variety of weather conditions.

Trip Reports