Beaver Brook Out and Back

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The beauty of the Beaver Brook Trail is in its sense of isolation in the midst of so many people. Mountain biking is not allowed on this trail and most people don't seem to venture far from the parking lot. Whenever I have done this trail, I have largely had it to myself.

The trail rolls through evergreen forest, without any inclines that are too difficult. It is simply a blissful run through typical Colorado forest.

The trail continues all the way out to Genessee, if you're looking for a little more mileage.

The trail can become quite packed down and icy from late Fall through early Spring. Additional traction such as micro-spikes or yaktrax would be very helpful.

It can also be used to connect other trails and can be reached by taking the Chimney Gulch trail if you want some incline gain, extra mileage, and a place to park that isn't overrun.

The Beaver Brook Trail starts from the Windy Saddle parking area, on the west side of the road heading up Lookout Mountain in Golden.

The trail begins in conjunction with Lookout Mountain Trail. During the brief stretch where these two run together, keep an eye out for mountain bikers, particularly if you have a furry friend with you.

The Lookout Mountain Trail quickly breaks off to the north while the Beaver Brook Trail continues to the west, towards Genessee where it finishes. Once the Lookout Mountain Trail goes off on its own the Beaver Brook Trail is hiking and running only, and the crowds thin out substantially.

There are many rocky outcrops over the first mile that must be navigated, which will slow you down, as well as a couple of rock falls. However, once these obstacles are overcome, the trail is simply splendid, gentle singletrack for the length of this run.

Choose your turnaround for whatever fits your needs. There is a steep climb about 6 miles in (which would be a 12-mile roundtrip) that should be noted, should you want to go further.

It is 10.1 miles one-way to Genessee Park.