
Grizzly Creek Trail Glenwood Springs
Hike alongside a powerful creek through the majestic Glenwood Canyon, witnessing nature's resilience and stunning Rocky Mountain vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds

Grizzly Creek Trail Glenwood Springs
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike alongside a powerful creek through the majestic Glenwood Canyon, witnessing nature's resilience and stunning Rocky Mountain vistas.
"A beautiful hike with roaring water and incredible canyon views, a true Colorado gem.
"
✅ Secure Your Permit
A permit is essential for this hike. Check online resources before your visit!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, especially on warmer days. The trail can be exposed.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grizzly Creek Trail
Glenwood Canyon
Hike alongside a roaring creek with stunning canyon views. Recovering beautifully after a wildfire.

Glenwood Canyon Scenery
Glenwood Canyon
Experience the dramatic beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the White River National Forest.

River Views
Along Grizzly Creek
The trail follows a powerful creek, offering dynamic water views and sounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permits & Trail Status
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Secure Your Permit
A permit is essential for this hike. Check online resources before your visit!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, especially on warmer days. The trail can be exposed.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail has occasional narrow and overgrown sections.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning canyon and creek vistas.
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Secure Your Permit
A permit is essential for this hike. Check online resources before your visit!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry ample water, especially on warmer days. The trail can be exposed.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail has occasional narrow and overgrown sections.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning canyon and creek vistas.
🐻 Wildlife Sightings
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including bears!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Grizzly Creek Trail for its beautiful canyon views and the impressive flow of the creek, noting its scenic beauty and the resilience of nature post-wildfire. Some reviewers mention trail closures and the need for permits, while others highlight the trail's occasional narrowness and steep sections, suggesting it's best for older children or experienced hikers.
"So the trail is open today,beautiful views,easy path,definitely want to start early, it's five miles panda five miles back take plenty of water!"
Thomas Lay
"The trail is nice and goes along a river, but unfortunately was closed by some reason on may 9 2225. Few fallen logs logs stretch from one shore to other, good for scenic photos"
Andrey Salyakhov (Andreisadventurechronicls)
"A lovely walk! There weren't any particularly long hard sections of trail. The edge is occasionally steep. I would recommend this trail for 8+ ages because of those occasional steep drop offs that go straight into the river. A couple of parts are very narrow and a bit overgrown. It is possible for the water to wash out the trail in a couple of parts. Luckily when I went in July I could walk the whole length without seeing water cross the trail path."
Jenny Morgan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grizzly Creek Trail is located east of Glenwood Springs in Glenwood Canyon. Access is typically via I-70. Parking is available at the Grizzly Creek Recreation Area.
Public transport options directly to the trailhead are limited. Driving is the most common method. Consider ride-sharing services if available.
Driving east on I-70 from Glenwood Springs will lead you to the Grizzly Creek Recreation Area, which is the trailhead.
Trail and area closures can occur due to weather or maintenance. It's crucial to check official park or forest service websites for current conditions before your visit.
Yes, the Rio Grande Trail runs through Glenwood Canyon, and you can bike to the Grizzly Creek Trailhead. E-bikes are also a popular option for exploring the canyon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit is required for the Grizzly Creek Trail. Information on obtaining permits can usually be found on the White River National Forest website or linked from local tourism sites.
The trail is generally open year-round during daylight hours, but specific access points or facilities might have seasonal hours. Always verify current access status.
While the trail itself may not have a direct fee, the associated recreation area might have parking fees or require a pass. Check with the White River National Forest for details.
Permit availability can vary. It's highly recommended to secure your permit in advance, especially during peak season, as they can be limited.
Hiking without a required permit can result in fines. Ensure you have obtained the necessary authorization before starting your hike.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The full Grizzly Creek Trail is approximately 8 miles roundtrip with about 1800 feet of elevation gain. However, sections may be closed, limiting the accessible length.
The trail is considered moderate to strenuous due to its length and elevation gain. Some sections are narrow with steep drop-offs.
While the trail follows a creek, the primary draw is the creek's flow and the canyon scenery. Specific named waterfalls might not be the main feature, but the water's movement is impressive.
Dogs are generally allowed on trails in the White River National Forest, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations.
Expect dramatic canyon walls, lush vegetation (recovering from a wildfire), and the dynamic flow of Grizzly Creek. It's a beautiful example of Colorado's mountain landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the powerful creek, the rugged canyon walls, and the recovering forest. The interplay of light and shadow in the canyon is particularly photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon light offers softer shadows and warmer tones, ideal for landscape photography in the canyon.
The entire trail offers scenic vistas. Keep an eye out for spots where the creek is particularly active or where you have a wide view of the canyon.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive canyon views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Drone usage is often restricted in National Forests and wilderness areas. Always check the specific regulations for the White River National Forest before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking a more relaxed experience in Glenwood Canyon, consider the Rio Grande Trail for biking or walking, which is flatter and more accessible. Nearby Glenwood Springs also offers family-friendly attractions like the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, providing a fun and relaxing end to a day of exploring.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Photographers will appreciate the play of light and shadow within the canyon, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for the grand vistas, while telephoto lenses can be useful for spotting wildlife. Remember to check permit requirements and trail status before your visit to maximize your photographic opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Glenwood Canyon
Beyond hiking, Glenwood Canyon is a hub for outdoor activities. Rafting and kayaking on the Colorado River are popular during warmer months, with options ranging from gentle floats suitable for families to more adventurous rapids. The presence of natural hot springs in the nearby town of Glenwood Springs also adds to the area's appeal, offering a relaxing contrast to the rugged canyon landscape.
It's important to note that Glenwood Canyon has experienced significant events, including wildfires. The Grizzly Creek Fire in 2020 impacted the area, and while recovery is evident, some trails or sections may have closures. Always check the latest conditions and advisories from the White River National Forest before planning your visit.
The Grizzly Creek Trail Experience
Despite the challenges, the rewards are significant. Hikers are treated to the powerful sounds and sights of Grizzly Creek, which can be quite impressive, especially after rain or snowmelt. The surrounding Glenwood Canyon scenery provides a dramatic backdrop, with towering rock walls and a resilient ecosystem that is slowly but surely reclaiming the land after the wildfire. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as sightings of black bears have been reported.
Given the trail's nature, proper preparation is key. This includes securing the necessary permit, carrying plenty of water, wearing sturdy hiking shoes, and being mindful of the trail conditions. Starting early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds, ensuring a more enjoyable and safer experience.
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