I looked through my guide book for a short hike. Something that would be four hours or less at a slow pace. I found a four miler (one-way) located on off County Road 68 in Pike National Forest. Trail number 663, also known as Rolling Creek, begins at an elevation of 8,200 feet. According to the guide book and map at the trailhead, Rolling Creek Trail gains 1,400 feet in four miles and terminates at the Wigwam Trail.
Hiking Rolling Creek Trail
I meandered along the trail enjoying the distant view of various rock formations as chipmunks scampered from tree to tree preparing for the upcoming winter days. The path led me through a patch a lodge pole pines, to an overlook, and then down to the creek. Eventually, I reached another trail that looked like and unamed logging road.
Unfamiliar with Rolling Creek Trail, I was unsure if this was the Wigwam crossing or not. Since the path did not dead end, and it didn’t seem like I had hiked four miles, I continued.
I hiked up a canyon following a single track that at timese was almost indistinguishable. Trickling waterfalls crossed the trail as it switched back and forth up the mountain with substantial elevation gain. Several fallen trees overtook the path occasionally marked by a few helpful cairns.
While I am all for the less traveled hikes, I felt as if I was venturing into the backwoods, especially when I came across a relatively fresh kill. The carcass of an elk or a deer still had fur left on one leg above the hoof!
Upon reaching the peak without any views, I saw the trail descended the other side. Instead of descending, I turned around and retraced my steps. Seven hours later (instead of four), I finished more like an 11 mile adventure! It was not what I planned, but at least I was prepared with the ten essentials. ETB
Other Nearby Hiking Trails
- Eight Hikes on Guanella Pass Scenic Byway
- Meridian Trail, Kenosha Pass, Ben Tyler Trail
- The Colorado Trail: Segment 3
- The Colorado Trail: Segment 4
what is all over that tree stump in the last picture? Rock formation looks like an ape sitting down, doesn’t it?
I think it is just a rock behind the stump…took these with my iphone so not the best quality!
Beth, that was a long hike, I guess Petey didn’t go…..nice photos
Hey, I wish I had discovered your this post right after I started my blog in February of 2013. These pictures are awesome. About 25 years ago, one of my friends got a group of us all psyched up about going to the Rolling Creek Trail. From that first time out to Rolling Creek Trail, I have been many, many times. I live about one hour from the trail head. I am mentioning your blog, and I couldn’t find a picture anywhere like you have of the rock croppings. I want to use it in a post … As long as I mention your blog, would you give me permission to do so? Those rock croppings carry some great memories. You have a great blog, by the way. Peace, T
Sure