Hewlett Gulch Trail Loop

The Hewlett Gulch Trail Loop is located near Fort Collins, Colorado. The primary access point is the Hewlett Gulch Trailhead. Parking is available at the trailhead, but due to its popularity, especially on weekends, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.

Yes, the Hewlett Gulch Trail Loop is a popular multi-use trail that welcomes hikers with dogs. It's always a good practice to keep your dog on a leash and follow Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste.

The Hewlett Gulch Trail Loop is generally best for mountain biking from late spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is typically favorable, and the trail conditions are usually dry. Be aware that the lower section involves numerous creek crossings, which can be higher in early spring due to snowmelt. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.

As the Hewlett Gulch Trail Loop is located within the Canyon Lakes Ranger District of the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, standard forest regulations apply. While there isn't typically a specific permit or fee required for day use of this particular trail, it's always a good idea to check the official USDA Forest Service website for any current alerts, closures, or updated fee information for the area before your visit.

The terrain on this loop is quite varied. The lower two miles follow Gordon Creek through a shaded gulch with a cottonwood canopy, featuring numerous shallow creek crossings and some rocky sections. The upland loop, however, becomes more rugged and steeper, with significant elevation gain, flowing through rock formations, meadows, and areas with 'skeleton trees' from past fires. Recent reroutes have improved sustainability and sight lines.

The entire Hewlett Gulch Trail Loop is approximately 12.7 kilometers (7.9 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete by mountain bike. This duration can vary based on your fitness level, technical skill, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The Hewlett Gulch Trail Loop is generally rated as moderate (blue difficulty). The lower section along Gordon Creek is often considered beginner-friendly with mild elevation gain. However, the upland loop introduces increased elevation and more rugged terrain, requiring more technical skills. Beginners might enjoy the lower section as an out-and-back, while more experienced riders can tackle the full loop.

You'll experience a transition from the shaded, creekside environment of the lower gulch to open landscapes with panoramic views on the upland loop. Expect to see meadows, diverse rock layers, and the unique beauty of fire-impacted areas with charcoaled trees. The trail also passes by foundations of old homesteads, adding a historical element to the natural surroundings.

Beyond the varied natural landscapes, key points include the Hewlett Gulch Trailhead where you begin, and the Hewlett Gulch Trail Split, which marks the divergence for the upland loop. The trail also features numerous creek crossings in the lower section and areas with 'skeleton trees' from past fires on the upper loop.

Yes, the route primarily follows sections of the Hewlett Gulch Trail. Specifically, it utilizes the Hewlett Gulch Trail for approximately 95% of its length, with other smaller segments also identified as Hewlett Gulch Trail.

For a more accessible and less strenuous ride, consider doing the lower section of the trail along Gordon Creek as an out-and-back. This part is generally beginner-friendly with limited elevation change. If you're looking for a greater challenge, continue onto the upland loop, but be prepared for steeper climbs and more rugged terrain. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is key to finding parking.