Cripple Creek is a hiker’s paradise, offering a variety of trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty and mining history. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk through the forest or a challenging climb to stunning vistas, the region’s hiking trails provide unforgettable experiences for outdoor lovers.
Gold Camp Trail
This rated “easy” trailhead is less than a mile from the hotel on Silver Street in Cripple Creek. This year round, non-motorized trail offers a unique view of area historic sites and a functioning mining operation. Trail visitors should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, an altitude of over 9,000 feet and some steep terrain. The trail is a perfect mix of history and adventure.
Mount Pisgah Cemetery Trail
This historic 40-acre public cemetery in Cripple Creek is an easy walk on the eastern slope of Mount Pisgah with panoramic valley views. The cemetery features monuments to salute American veterans. It’s a bit over one mile from the hotel to the cemetery.
Vindicator Valley Trail
This rated “easy” two mile loop has an elevation gain of about 341 ft and takes about 1 to 1.5 hour.One of Victor’s “Trails of Gold”, the Vindicator Valley Trail leads you two miles around the historic Independence mining camp outside of Victor. The Vindicator Valley Trail leads you through old mining camps in Victor. It’s a very scenic and worthwhile walking tour. There are lots of interpretive signs on the way.
This is a relatively easy hike on a well-established and wide trail that loops around various old closed gold mines. There are some short steep sections. The area just west is a working gold mine. There are benches to stop and numerous interpretive signs along the route. There are few spots that offer shade.
Pancake Rocks
This “moderate” rated 6.5 mile trail has an elevation gain of about 1,700 ft and leads hikers to Pancake Rocks, which resemble a stack of pancakes. The trail begins at the Horsethief Falls Trailhead on South State Highway 67. From here, you’ll make a gradual ascent through a breathtaking mixed forest with towering pines and shimmering aspens. From the top, you’ll see sweeping, panoramic views of the neighboring peaks, including the majestic outline of Pikes Peak.
The trail is clearly marked and well-maintained. There is plenty of shade along the way. Wear shoes with good traction, and consider hiking poles to help with the gravel and elevation changes. It can be windy at the top, so dress in layers.
Little Grouse Mountain
Rita Planting Rocks leads to this rated “easy” 1.7 mile loop trail starts at the parking lot off South State Highway 67 and leads to Little Grouse Mountain. Though it’s a short hike, be prepared for steep, rocky sections and lack of shade. The hike will take about 3 minutes to an hour. Along the way, you’ll find informative plaques, the ruins of an old miner camp, and a troll statue at the summit, where you’ll enjoy great views of the surrounding mountains.
Horsethief Falls Trail
This popular rated “moderate” trail is 2.6 miles long with about 583 elevation gain. The out and back trail is great for the whole family, and is located only a short drive from Cripple Creek off highway 67. The trail winds through lush forests and leads to the serene Horsethief Falls, a picturesque mountain waterfall. The trail is easy until the end, where you climb up to the falls.