Chimney Gulch
From NetCairns
This trail is great for those looking for some miles and a challenge. The views are great; you can see the entire Denver metro.
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Highlights
- Great climb, but physically demanding.
- There can be some hikers on the upper sections, so watch out.
- Some say this is THE way to ride to the top of Apex.
Current Conditions
Have you ridden this trail recently? What are the conditions?
Overview
Chimney Gulch climbs steeply, intersecting Lookout Rd several times. The trailhead is at a parking lot off of Hwy 93, just south of the intersection with Hwy 6. Find the single track, which is not well marked but fairly obvious, and start heading up. You will twist and turn over loose gravel, rock, slabs, tight switchbacks (with water bars for added fun), and through some nice dense woods further up. At two points you will cross Lookout Rd. and find the trail on the other side. On a hot day, this climb can be hell. On a nice day, it is just super fantastic. At the very top, you will come out on Lookout again at a parking lot. You can turn around here. But...
Many people think the reason to ride this trail is to make a loop out of Apex. Take a right on Lookout. There is a little single track off on the left side of the road, if you want to avoid as much pavement as possible. When you come to a T-intersection, right across the road will be the top of Apex. Ride down, hit the Enchanted Forest Trail. Decend through the Enchanted Forest Trail, once you have reached the bottom follow the Kinney Run paved bike path north. This will take you back to you car at the base of Chimney Gulch and makes for an ideal looped ride.
Getting There
The trailhead is on 6th Ave (Highway 93), just South of the intersection with Highway 6. There is a pullout on the West side.
Trailhead
Latitude: 39°45′0.976″N
Longitude: 105°13′44.432″W
Schedule and Regulations
No seasonal regulations or unusual rules
Photo Album
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Trail Videos
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Other Suggested Trails
- Dakota Ridge with Mathews Winters Loop
- Rattlesnake Gulch
- Apex Park Loop
- Enchanted Forest Trail
- To make a new trail, click here.
NetCairns Guide Books
This trail is part of the following NetCairns Guide Books:
