3-Day: Zirkel Circle from Slavonia TH

Revel in flower filled meadows, crystalline lakes, and stunning views of the Continental Divide on a 10.4 mile journey that follows the rushing waters of Gold Creek to reach the pine lined shores of Gold Creek Lake. Worth every ounce of effort, the steep climb up to Gilpin Lake delivers panoramic views of jagged peaks. The Gilpin Trail then drops steeply down and parallels Gilpin Creek back to the TH.

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 3-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members.

Day 1: Drive to Slavonia Trailhead (approx. 3.5 hrs from Golden). Pit toilets. Start hike on the Gilpin Trail #1161 and after about ¼ mile you will reach a fork. Turn right on the Gold Creek Trail (#1150). You will be hiking counter clockwise as the views are much better in this direction. This part of the trail is heavily shaded with some waterfalls. Hike about 3 miles (1,200ft) to Gold Creek Lake and find camping. Note that camping must be at least 1/4mile from the lake.

Day 2: Continue hiking the steady ascent up to Gilpin Lake Trail. After about 1.5 miles you will come to a fork with the Gilpin Lake Trail #570. Turn left on this trail and continue another 1.5 miles to reach gorgeous Gilpin Lake (Total 3 miles and 1,200 ft).  Find camping at least ¼ mile from the lake.

Day 3: Complete the Zirkel Circle by continuing on the Gilpin Lake Trail back to the TH. This final 4.5 miles is virtually all downhill along Gilpin Creek.  (4.5 miles, minimal elevation).

Overall Route

Note: the Slavonia TH is very popular to plan accordingly to secure parking. If you want to arrive the night prior, dispersed camping is available on the road to the TH. Camping must be at least ¼ mile away from Gold and Gilpin Lakes.

Alternate: BPX 4-Day: Zirkel Circle from Slavonia TH - follow same loop but in clockwise direction with first night only 2.1 miles up the Gilpin trail to split the majority of the ascent into two days. 

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking
• Seasons: July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 10.4 mi
• Elevation Gain: 2,400 ft
• High Point: 10,771 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District (RNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 6
• Maximum Party Size: 15
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 15