HAPPY TRAILS: Gray Back Peak
This hidden peak, tucked behind Cheyenne Mountain off Old Stage Road, offers an invigorating, remote, mountain feel without piling on the mileage and elevation gain.
To get there
From the backside of The Broadmoor hotel, drive 6.6 miles west up Old Stage Road.
Turn left on FR 371 at the sign for Emerald Valley Ranch. Continue another half-mile to a pass where the road drops into Emerald Valley. Park on the left at the top of the pass or a little way down at a wide area in the road. Four-wheel drive recommended when snow is present.
The hike
There is no official trailhead, but an obvious trail, well-worn by horses from nearby dude ranches, runs south along the ridge to Gray Back's summit. Just less than a mile into the walk, the trail splits on a flat, forested ridge. The left fork leads down to Rock Creek. The right fork continues to Gray Back's summit. Look for aspen trees with five-line scars left by the claws of black bears. The trail gently climbs as it contours south. Near the end, it switchbacks steeply to a rocky summit. Here, hikers can gaze down into Little Fountain Creek and Emerald Valley.
Details
Pack horses frequent this trail, so sandals are not recommended. The trail could make a great night hike. Not recommended for bikes. No fees. Pike National Forest, 636-1602.
Rating system
A scale of one to four boots. One is easiest, with little elevation gain, at reasonable altitude. Four is most difficult, with severe elevation gain, difficult terrain, or extreme length
RATING
• 2 boots
• 3.7 miles round trip
• 700-foot elevation gain
