Near Glenwood Springs, the 7.9-mile out and back Grizzly Creek Trail takes over four hours to complete on average. Following along the river and having varied terrain that’s exciting but not too tricky, the trail provides hikers with stunning scenic views. Still being reconstructed, when done, there will be a 1,847-foot elevation gain.
As of February 2022, only the first two miles of the trail are open for hikers due to a good portion of the area being destroyed by summer storms and the 2020 Grizzly Creek Fire. Visitors should be extra cautious of falling objects like trees, rocks, stumpholes, and flash floods. Updates on the trail condition are given on the Grizzly Creek #2065 forest service page.
Activities on the Trail
Located in the White River National Forest, visitors can enjoy fishing along the trail. Dogs are also permitted as long as they remain leashed. The best time of year to visit is between April and November before winter weather rolls in, though it’s possible to hike in the snow. There are colorful wildflowers in the spring and summer that are not only gorgeous to view but also to photograph.
To get there, travel west of Eagle on I-70 for 26 miles into town and take the Grizzly Creek exit. The trailhead is next to the upper parking lot just north of the highway.
Details
Address: Glenwood Springs, CO
Season: Year-round, but optimal from spring to fall.