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Mount Galbraith Park Loop

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Highlights:

Short loop, view down onto Golden, Colorado
Near:Golden, CO
Scenery:
Distance:4.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:1100 ft
Hike Time:2.5 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:OK, but a few difficult spots
HikeType:Loop



Summary:  Leave the parking area on the Cedar Gulch Trail., cross a small stream and parallel the stream bed for a few hundred feet. Once you hit the switchback, your climb begins, ending 1.3 miles later and 728' above you at the intersection of the Cedar Gulch Trail and the Mount Galbraith Loop Trail. The Cedar Gulch Trail is a steady climb which traverses the side of the hills of Golden Gate Canyon. At the upper end of the trail views of Golden and Denver develop as you near the intersection with the loop trail.
At the junction of the two trails, you have the choice of going left or right on the loop trail. Going to the right leaves the best views of Denver, Golden and Clear Creek canyon for the end of the hike. The loop trail has some nice rock ledges and rock stairways. At the point where the loop turns back, there is an inviting peak in front of you, but don't climb it! The area is closed to protect some rare species of plants!

Trailhead: From the intersection of Colorado 93 and U.S. 6 go north 1 1/4 miles. Turn left at the stoplight at Golden Gate Canyon Road and go west 1 1/4 miles. Parking lot and trailhead is on the south side of the road. (Lat:39.46 Lon:-105.15)
Trail Guides for Mount Galbraith Park Loop:
Snowshoeing Colorado
by Claire Walter  ()

Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer,
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: Jefferson County Open Space Parks 303-271-5925
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Keith Robinson, who has posted  5 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Page 1 of 3   Submit your own review
Reviewed by ZG on 8/5/2012
Great starter hike. Easy to find, free, solid photo-ops. Nice views of Golden/Coors. Moderate enough terrain that you feel like you're hiking, while initiating people to CO.

Reviewed by WA on 10/30/2011
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Reviewed by G on 4/2/2011
Used to be 5 star. Wasn't too crowded and always considerate hikers. Now 1 star. Warm weather brings out rude 30 year olds who obviously believes leash laws applies to everyone else but them, they won't sidestep when appropriate to allow the hiker in the right of way, much less know how to say 'thank you'. Today, lots of dog excrement, people hiking off trail and not enough parking. This park needs the presence of Forrest Personnel to get it back on track.

Reviewed by Another Will on 5/7/2010
I really enjoy this hike. It's close to my house and is steep enough to give me a good work out. The first part, Cedar Gulch, is exposed (i.e., no trees) so it's really hot on a summer afternoon because there is no break from the sun. There are more trees on the Mt Galbraith Loop. My dog loves the trail too.

Reviewed by Will on 5/4/2010
Very nice short day hike only about 30 mins from downtown Denver. I live in the city and make it out here every few weeks to get the dog some exercise. I have seen deer here regularly. The view at the top over Golden is nice but there is also a great view of a bunch of cell phone towers. All in all a nice hike, close by, but not a very great hike if you want to get away from civilization.

Reviewed by Bk on 3/16/2010
Great day today on Mt. Galbraith Loop! The three of us were in heaven with the sun, sky, and great views. Will plan to go again soon!

Reviewed by EJ on 5/22/2009
Great way to spend a couple of hours. The first part of the trail is a bit challenging if you are a beginner but it is well worth the effort. The loop around is peaceful and relaxing. The views are decent. Weekends can be a bit crowded. During midday, the sun can be hot and there is not a lot of shade. Make sure to use sunblock or carry a cap. I sighted a snake on the trail last weekend so beware they are out there. Enjoy.

Reviewed by Nathalie on 11/19/2008
Nice hike with great views but very crowded. Had to stop often to let people go through.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Colorado Hiking, Colorado Trails, Colorado Hikes, Jefferson County Hiking, Jefferson County Trails, Jefferson County Hikes


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