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.
Cross the line, pay the fine
No one loves sitting in i70 traffic but even worse is racking up a fine for violating the Express Lane rules! Violators will now be identified along the I-70 Mountain Express Lanes by cameras, sensors and software and mailed a fine if they are found to be breaking the rules.
What counts as a violation?
- Using Express Lanes when they are closed
- Weaving in and out of the Express Lanes across the solid yellow lines
- Driving in the Express Lane with an oversized vehicle—includes vehicles with three or more axles (including cars towing trailers) and any vehicle over 25 ft long
When does this start?
June 21 – 1 month grace period – Drivers will get a warning in the mail for violations
July 21 and on – Drivers who commit violations will be fined
Why enforce fines?
The Express Lanes are used to relieve congestion only during high traffic times, otherwise they operate as an emergency shoulder for broken down cars or emergency services. When the Express Lanes are open, weaving in and out of the lanes creates hazards for drivers who aren’t expecting vehicles to cross the solid lines.
How Much is a fine?
Fines start at $75 for a first offense if paid within 20 days of issuance. After 20 days, the fine increases to $150.
How does the express lane work?
To use the express lane, only enter when it’s open at the designated entry points. Overhead signs will indicate whether or not the Express Lane is open. Your license plate will be scanned and the toll charge will be sent to the address associated with your vehicle’s registration. If you have an ExpressToll pass, you will save an average of 40% on tolls and automatically be charged through your account.
For more information head to expresslanes.codot.gov.
