Another day of the long holiday weekend equals another hike! Danelle was game to hike with me on Sunday too, and we decided on Green Mountain Trail in Pike National Forest.
Strangely, we’ve hiked all over this area, including miles of the Colorado Trail, and didn’t know it was here. We were the first to arrive in the dirt parking lot off Forest Road 550 at 8:30 am. The trailhead parking is near Buffalo Creek Campground and has pit toilets.
Being July 4th weekend, the area was loaded with campers, so we weren’t sure how busy the normally lightly trafficked trail would be.
The Hike
After strapping on our packs, Danelle and I along with the 12.5 year old German Shepherd, Sheena, started our hike. We were thankful to have the AllTrails app on our phones, as the only sign at the trailhead said, “To Colorado Trail,” which was a little confusing.
We walked about a quarter mile until we reached The Colorado Trail junction and another quarter mile before we found a sign for Green Mountain Trail where we turned to the right and ascended through the forest.
Green Mountain Trail
Some of my favorite wildflowers dotted the path, including Blue Colombines and Forget-Me-Nots. We followed Green Mountain Trail for a little over three miles and enjoyed a short rest in an aspen grove before connecting back with the Colorado Trail.
The Colorado Trail
Having hiked the entire Colorado Trail, this portion of Segment 3 was a repeat for us, though I didn’t remember it. I suppose its in an entirely different context when hiking 15 miles a day rather than a morning stroll in the woods.
The Colorado Trail was more popular, in particular with mountain bikers. While we had to step off the trail a few times for cyclists, overall it was a peaceful hike that not many people seem to know is there! ETB
SHOP
For notecards and key chains, visit My Shop on this website.
Gorgeous flowers!
thank you!