Chief Mountain Trail

The trail begins at the Chief Mountain Trailhead, which is easily accessible less than an hour west of Denver. Parking is available at the trailhead. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as the lot can fill up quickly.

The terrain is varied and challenging. The first mile and a half is a narrow path through a pine and spruce-fir forest with a moderate incline (15-25% grade). As you ascend, it becomes rockier and steeper, especially in the last tenth of a mile, transitioning to exposed alpine tundra near the summit. Good trail running shoes are recommended for the varied surfaces.

Given its steep and continuous incline, jogging the 2.8 to 3.1-mile round trip can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level and how much time you spend at the summit. It's a challenging, high-intensity workout.

While relatively short, this trail is considered moderately difficult due to its significant and continuous elevation gain. It's a strenuous trail run best suited for experienced and acclimated joggers seeking a challenging climb. Beginners might find the steep grades and altitude demanding.

As you ascend, you'll pass through dense forest before emerging above the tree line. From the Chief Mountain Summit, you're rewarded with amazing panoramic 360-degree views of the Mount Evans Wilderness, foothills, Mount Evans itself, and distant peaks like Longs Peak, Papoose Mountain, and Warrior Mountain.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users. Remember to pack out all pet waste.

No specific permit is required to jog the Chief Mountain Trail itself, and there is no entrance fee for this part of the Arapaho National Forest. However, always check the latest regulations on the USDA Forest Service website before your visit, as conditions and rules can change.

The trail can be jogged year-round. Summer and early autumn offer the most pleasant conditions. During autumn, you might experience beautiful fall foliage. In winter, be prepared for snow and ice, especially near the summit, and consider bringing microspikes or snowshoes. The upper sections can be very windy in colder months.

Yes, while the primary route follows the Chief Mountain Trail for 100% of its length, a small section (5%) of the route also passes through the Warren Gulch Trail.

Given the altitude and strenuous nature, bring plenty of water, appropriate trail running shoes with good grip, and layers of clothing. The weather can change quickly, especially above the tree line where it can be windy. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are also recommended due to sun exposure at higher elevations.

The Chief Mountain Trail is a popular choice due to its accessibility and rewarding views. For potentially less crowded options, you might explore other trails within the broader Arapaho National Forest area, though specific recommendations would depend on your desired distance and difficulty.