Bighorn Creek Trail
A strenuous hike through diverse landscapes, offering aspen groves, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and majestic mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Bighorn Creek Trail
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A strenuous hike through diverse landscapes, offering aspen groves, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and majestic mountain views.
"This strenuous hike was worth the long drive on I-70; the ascent should not be taken lightly."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Ankle support hiking boots are a must for the rocky, stair-like terrain. Trekking poles save your knees on the descent!
💧 Filter Your Water
Don't rely on the creek! Bring a water filter or tablets to safely refill at multiple points. Stay hydrated!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aspen Groves & Wildflowers
Lower sections of the trail
Wander through shimmering aspen groves and vibrant meadows bursting with wildflowers. A true feast for the eyes!
Bighorn Creek Falls
Mid-trail
Witness the beauty of cascading water at Bighorn Creek Falls, a refreshing stop on your journey.
Alpine Lakes & Mountain Vistas
Upper sections of the trail
Reach stunning alpine lakes and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding majestic mountains.
Historic Wooden Cabin
Past Bighorn Creek Falls
Discover a charming old cabin, a rustic landmark offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Terrain
Hydration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Ankle support hiking boots are a must for the rocky, stair-like terrain. Trekking poles save your knees on the descent!
💧 Filter Your Water
Don't rely on the creek! Bring a water filter or tablets to safely refill at multiple points. Stay hydrated!
🐾 Leash Your Dogs
Wildlife like deer and elk are common. Keep dogs leashed to protect them and the animals.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Ankle support hiking boots are a must for the rocky, stair-like terrain. Trekking poles save your knees on the descent!
💧 Filter Your Water
Don't rely on the creek! Bring a water filter or tablets to safely refill at multiple points. Stay hydrated!
🐾 Leash Your Dogs
Wildlife like deer and elk are common. Keep dogs leashed to protect them and the animals.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly.
📸 Capture the Views
The aspen groves and mountain vistas are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Bighorn Creek Trail, highlighting its diverse landscapes from aspen groves to alpine lakes and impressive mountain vistas. The challenging, steep terrain is noted as a significant workout, requiring proper gear like hiking shoes and poles. While generally peaceful, some mention graffiti near historical sites.
"My friend and I had a splendid time exploring the Bighorn creek trail on Independence Day. The hike was scenic throughout. We were astounded by the beauty of the aspen grove, water streams, alpine meadow, boulder fields, and the majestic mountain view. This strenuous hike was worth the long drive on I-70. The ascent should not be taken lightly. Instead of gradual switchbacks, the trail is stacked like a staircase, except instead of neat stairs, you are hiking on rocks and dirt. I highly recommend wearing hiking shoes with ankle support. Hiking poles were also very useful to us on the descent. My friend and I each held onto a pole, and we were saved from falling many times as we hiked down. The trail was dry except for a couple of muddy patches. Toward the end when you see the wooden cabin, you must cross the nearby stream to the other side; you will see the unobstructed view of the mountains. I lightened my backpack by packing a 32 oz Nalgene water bottle and the befree water filter. I was able to filter water at three points along the trail: at around the 1.5 mile mark, then 0.75 mile from the end, and the end. By the time we finished hiking, I had drank three bottles of water. I saw a couple of spots for campers, so it’s an accessible spot for an overnight stay. Although it was a holiday, the trail was sparse, and we saw only a few hikers. It was very peaceful. I was delighted to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the quiet reverie that nature invited."
Huong Dang
"Awesome views and Vail nature overlook! Next to parking lot is the creek"
Jose Miguel
"Fun hike with a cool little house a few miles in and beautiful alpine lakes if you hike far enough. Deer, elk, and moose are present so it's important to keep any dogs on leash or under close control. Great spot for hiking or running in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter."
Greg Knaddison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bighorn Creek Trail is accessible via I-70. The trailhead is often shared with other trails, so keep an eye out for signage. Parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended, especially during peak season.
The access road and parking area can be narrow and may not be ideal for very large vehicles. It's best to check local conditions or consider parking elsewhere and walking if you have an oversized vehicle.
Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point, but generally, you'll be looking for access points off I-70 that lead to the trailhead. Using a GPS with updated maps is advised.
Currently, there are no widely advertised shuttle services specifically for Bighorn Creek Trail. It's best to plan for personal transportation.
The trail is often associated with the Vail area, making Vail the closest major town. Denver is a longer drive but a common starting point for many visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, no permit is required for day hiking on Bighorn Creek Trail. However, always check with the local forest service or land management agency for any current regulations or restrictions.
Bighorn Creek Trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, winter conditions can make it impassable or dangerous without proper winter gear.
There is usually no entrance fee for Bighorn Creek Trail itself. However, some trailheads might have associated parking fees or require a recreation pass.
Yes, there are designated spots for camping along the trail, making it accessible for overnight stays. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and any specific camping regulations.
Campsites are often first-come, first-served. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, or check with the local ranger district for any reservation possibilities or dispersed camping guidelines.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Bighorn Creek Trail is considered strenuous due to its steep, rocky ascents that resemble stairs. It offers a significant vertical workout.
The length of the trail can vary depending on how far you go, but it offers a substantial hike with opportunities to reach alpine lakes. Some reviews mention a cool little house a few miles in.
Expect a diverse landscape including aspen groves, Englemann Spruce, subalpine fir, pine stands, fern groves, meadows of wildflowers, boulder fields, and stunning mountain views.
While it can get busy, especially on holidays, many visitors find the trail to be relatively sparse and peaceful, offering a great escape from city hustle.
Restroom facilities at trailheads can vary. It's best to assume there might not be any and come prepared, or check with local resources beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
The trail offers incredible photo ops, from the shimmering aspen groves and wildflower meadows to the cascading Bighorn Creek Falls and panoramic mountain vistas. The historic cabin also makes for unique shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the landscape.
Drone usage is often restricted in national forests and wilderness areas. Always check with the local land management agency for current regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views and aspen groves. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget extra batteries!
The overlooks near the alpine lakes and the areas around Bighorn Creek Falls provide stunning vantage points. The higher you climb, the more expansive the views become.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider turning back after reaching the historic cabin or Bighorn Creek Falls if the ascent becomes too much for younger hikers. The opportunity to see wildlife like deer and elk can be a highlight for kids, but always emphasize keeping a safe distance and respecting their space.
💰 Budget Travelers
For those looking to extend their stay without hotel costs, the trail offers accessible spots for overnight camping.
💑 Couples & Adventure Seekers
The trail's diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities for photography and exploration. The sense of accomplishment after conquering the steep ascent makes the panoramic mountain views even more rewarding.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Ascent: Trail Conditions and Difficulty
The steepness is no joke! Many reviewers emphasize the need for good physical condition and proper footwear. Trekking poles are also a game-changer, particularly for the descent, as they provide stability and reduce strain on your knees.
Water Sources and Hydration Strategy
Planning your water stops is key to a successful hike. By filtering water at various points, you can ensure you have an adequate supply throughout your trek, preventing dehydration and allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning scenery.
Wildlife Encounters and Responsible Hiking
Respecting the natural environment is a core principle for hikers. This includes practicing Leave No Trace principles, which means packing out everything you pack in, staying on marked trails, and minimizing your impact on the ecosystem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit