HAPPY TRAILS CHEESMAN CANYON

Here’s a hike in the mountains that doesn’t get too high. The trail follows the South Platte River as it cuts through the granite domes of the Rampart Range. Few hikers explore the spot, thinking it’s only a short fly fisher’s path. Nothing could be less true. The trail is long and swimming with great views.

To get there: Drive Colorado Highway 67 north from Woodland Park to Deckers. Go north on County Road 126 for two miles to a trailhead on the left.

Trip log: One to three boots; eight-mile round trip with many shorter variations; 600 feet elevation gain.

The hike: Start at a clearly marked trail that gradually climbs through a dry, ponderosa forest. In half a mile, the path crests at a low ridge and comes to a fork at a sign. Go right and begin the quarter-mile descent to the river.

For the next three miles, the path parallels the raucous current of the South Platte River, eventually leading up to the Cheesman Reservoir dam. Ambitious hikers can follow a road up to the reservoir.

Hikers don’t need to go the full distance to realize the full charm of this canyon. A few minutes of walking leaves the road far behind. The granite canyon walls move in, cupping countless golden-green pools lined with granite boulders. These perches are a perfect place to watch the current and the dark, darting fish below.

Details: No bikes Info: Pike National Forest, 636-1602 Dogs: On leash Rating: A scale of one to four boots. One is easiest, with little elevation gain, and it is at a reasonable altitude. Four is most difficult, with severe elevation gain, difficult terrain or extreme length or altitude.

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