Mayflower Gulch Trail

"This trail is 100% epic! It’s one of the most popular in the state, just as popular as a winter snowshoe trail as it is a summer hike. So if you’re after solitude, this is not your spot. But honestly, enjoying this spot with other folks around is totally worth it for the abundance of beauty. The trail starts as a meander through a forested gulch, with sounds of critters and rushing waters optimizing the sensorial experience. The trail is an old wagon road, so nice and wide. Mossy rocks, and patches of wildflowers frame some cabin ruins along the way. Once you reach the base of the old mining camp, the trail opens up to an expansive meadow, set amongst a natural amphitheater framed by Fletcher Mountain and Atlantic Peak, both above 13,000’ elevation. Several ruins of old mining cabins sit at the base of the valley, and you are free to explore them. Just be sure to watch out for debris and metal on the ground in the cabins, and critters hiding in the grass. Because of the sensitivity of the historic site, and other people that are almost certain to be around, it’s best to keep your puppers on leash and under strict command. We love this trail year-round, but like it best during the fall shoulder season (October-November) because it’s the least busy time. Extra layers are a must, but to see the peaks dusted with snow is pure magic! Difficulty Rating: Moderate Popularity Rating: High Shadiness Factor: Mixed -Trailhead: Mayflower Gulch Trailhead -Stats: 3.4 mi RT, 591 ft elevation gain -Getting there: Easy access off paved road -Parking: FREE designated parking lot -Restrooms at the trailhead: None -Puppers: Welcome on-leash -Best time to visit: Anytime! This is just as popular of a winter snowshoe as it is a summer hike -Good to know: The initial ascent up to the old mining camp can actually be driven if you have a 4wd vehicle with high clearance. If this is the case, you can start the hike at the mining camp, and get even higher in elevation for half the workout. -Add-ons: The trail as-listed on AllTrails is “Mayflower Gulch Grand Traverse”, and is 6.1 mi, 1548 elevation gain. We usually just hike to the old mining cabins, which is the hike linked to the stats I’ve listed above. But you can do the whole hike for more challenge. Or, you can hike all the way up to Atlantic Peak from this same trailhead. 📍Summit County, Colorado is located on the ancestral homelands of the Núu-agha-tʉvʉ-pʉ̱ (Ute) peoples"

"This is hands down one of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado. In only 3 miles round trip you come to an amazing gulch with close up views of cabins and mountain peaks. Stick to the trail to avoid avalanche or back country danger. This trail is pretty well trafficked so it's hard to get lost. Be sure to acclimate before going, this hike starts at over 11,000 ft"