RMOTHG Trip – Noddle Heads

Trip

RMOTHG Trip – Noddle Heads

This hike to the Noddle Heads in Pike National Forest begins on an old forest road that climbs steadily through pine and aspen stands. The route then turns off-trail, navigating open forest and rocky terrain to reach the Noddle Heads—an impressive series of four granite pillars in the Rampart Range. You are rewarded with sweeping views of the South Platte region from the base and summit areas.

  • Moderate
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 6.5 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 800 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 8,107 ft
  • Pace: 1.5 - 2.0 MPH

Tucked deep within Pike National Forest, the adventure to the Noddle Heads begins unassumingly on an old forest road, weaving through whispering aspen groves and towering pines. But soon, the path vanishes and the real journey begins—an off-trail traverse through wild, rugged terrain that leads to the awe-inspiring Noddle Heads, a dramatic quartet of granite pillars rising defiantly from the Rampart Range. Each monolith beckons with its own character, offering thrilling scrambles, hidden nooks, and jaw-dropping vistas of the untamed South Platte region. It’s a backcountry odyssey for those drawn to the wild edges of the map. We'll stop near/at Noddle Head North lunch/snack. Our pace will be consistent with completing this hike in a reasonable amount of time. Overall, ~6.5 miles and 800 ft elevation gain. (Noddle Heads - CalTopo)

Along the front range, the RMOTHG is considered the group to join if you’re over 50 and looking for outdoor activities, camaraderie and adventure! With over 600 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)

Carpool Place & Time: Meet at the Ken Caryl PnR at 8:00AM, for an 8:15AM departure (Ken Caryl Park-N-Ride - Google Maps)

We'll carpool to the trailhead parking area CO 67, 17 miles west of Sedalia (39°18'53.1"N 105°08'02.7"W - Google Maps)

Route/Place

Noddle Heads


Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Ten essentials are required. Trekking poles are recommended.

$15 annual RMOTHG Membership Dues are required to participate. Please contact the office at 303-279-3080 ext. 3 or office@cmc.org to join!

Trip Reports