When Clay and I first started dating he attempted to hike Herman Gultch, the trail ended up having too much snow but since then he has been wanting to try it again. We finally did last weekend and it was amazing!

Trip: Hiking
Length of Trip: Half Day
Trail: Herman Gulch Trail
Length: 6.3 RT
Elevation Gain: 1,755+
Where: Just pass Silver Plume before the Tunnel
Directions: i70 west to the trailhead

We knew this was a popular hike so we got up early and arrived a little before 8 am and the lot was full and parking was flowing down the street. Going up the trail was too crowded but going down was very crowded. Reading the post on All Trails I would try to get the trailhead by 7 am on the weekends or just try and go during the week.

The trail starts uphill but eventually levels out before starting a slow climb towards the top. You will go in and out of pine forest before you get above the tree line so there is plenty of shade. The trail also runs along a creek so there are plenty of spots for your dogs to get some water and play!

It took us about 2 hours to get to the top and I would not say it was a breeze but the epic views are so worth it. We spend about 20 mins hanging out up top – perfect spot for a picnic if you pack sammies before heading back down which took us about an hour. 10/10 would recommend! Incredible views and only a short drive from Denver.