Coon Hill

7.1.2012 - Coon Hill South Ridge Route

To get to the trailhead from Denver, pass Eisenhower tunnel on I70 and park the car on the right by the tunnel. Climb up the hill on the left, you will see the trailhead. I don’t remember seeing any sign for this though. Details about this trail can be found here:  Coon Hill in SummitPost

Climbing up

This hike is only 2 miles round trip but with 1217 feet elevation gain. You pretty much keep climbing up all the way to the peak. Some parts of the hike could be very narrow and slippery with loose small rocks. A few people fell during the hike…please be very careful and watch on your steps. There is a few streams cross the trail, which makes the plants and wildflowers grow much better than other spots. We were hoping to see the blooms of wildflowers but not much luck. Though we did see a few usual big bunch of blue columbines on the way.  

Mountain views

wildflowers

Alpine forget-me-not

Last step to the peak

When you get to the peak, you know it worth all your efforts. As I said, the hike is short but steep, you need to bring plenty of water. Also, a common problem for high country hiking is no good spot for restroom.  There is no public restroom by the trail head or parking area either. We ended up driving down to Idaho springs exit for the restroom break. Even if there wasn’t a restroom need, you would still need to drive down there in order to turn around. It was about 1pm when we started heading back to I70 East…the traffic was already horrible and it took us about 1.5 hour to get back to 44th & Ward Rd PnR.  I have heard the traffic jam between Georgetown and the tunnel was the worst on Sunday after noon. It seems correct. 

Colorado State flower - Blue Columbine