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Grizzly Creek

PLEASE NOTE!

“SOME AREAS ALONG THIS TRAIL WERE BURNED, AS WAS A LARGE PORTION OF GLENWOOD CANYON. PUBLIC SAFETY CONTINUES TO BE THE PRIORITY, AND THERE IS A LONG-TERM RISK OF POST-FIRE FLOODING AND DEBRIS FLOW. THE WHITE RIVER NATIONAL FOREST IS WORKING WITH A NUMBER OF STAKEHOLDERS INCLUDING THE COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ON SHORT AND LONG-TERM MITIGATION MEASURES. THE FOREST SERVICE HAS CLOSED THIS TRAIL, PLEASE TAKE PRECAUTIONS AND FOLLOW ALL CLOSURE NOTICES THAT MAY BE ISSUED.
– WHITE RIVER NATIONAL FOREST SERVICE”

Grizzly Creek is one of several tributary streams that feeds into the Colorado River. The out and back trail meanders along the creek for several miles of spectacular, towering cliffs. Located at one of the most popular rest and recreation areas in Glenwood Canyon, Grizzly Creek is an up and back hike that follows the stream of the same name.

Easily one of the best hikes in Colorado, picnic spots and plenty of places to enjoy river views make this a popular choice for a summer outing. The clear, cold water comes from snowmelt on the Flat Tops and it is chocked full of fishing holes. Depending on the time of year, the river flows can be high and fast, so take care with children and pets near the creek’s banks. Along the lower trail, picnic tables invite hikers to relax and enjoy the scenery; further up the trail, large rocks along the river bank provide places to cool off and take a break. The trail leaves the creek and rejoins it at various points along the hike.

Trail Details

• Uses: Hiking
• Length: 6.8 miles out and back
• Ability Rating: Moderate
• Usage: Moderate to heavy
• Dogs permitted, with leash

Explore all the things to do in Glenwood Springs; there is something for everyone and a new adventure to be had every day!

Parking

Use Exit 121 for Grizzly Creek Rest Area and park in the upper lot where the trail begins.

MORE AREA HIKING TRAILS

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Visit Glenwood Springs

Hanging Lake winter hiking reservations are  available through April 30, 2024. The US Forest Service has scheduled a rebuild of the Hanging Lake Trail that is set to begin this spring and last throughout the summer months. Reservations will be available at the discretion of the US Forest Service, continue to check this page for updates. Visit the Hanging Lake page HERE for more information and the booking portal. 

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