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The most popular way to access Hope Pass on excellent trails.


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Map Key

8.9

Miles

14.3

KM

63%

Runnable

12,494' 3,808 m

High

9,283' 2,829 m

Low

3,211' 979 m

Up

3,211' 979 m

Down

14%

Avg Grade (8°)

31%

Max Grade (17°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Views · Wildflowers

Overview

This route is a section of the Leadville Trail 100 running race and has become very popular with trail runners as well as hikers looking for great views and wildflowers. The above treeline section is gorgeous.

Need to Know

There can be snow on the trail above treeline into June.

Runner Notes

The trail below treeline does not drain well and can turn into a stream making it difficult to run down when it is raining.

Description

Park the Willis Gulch trailhead, cross the bridge, and follow the Willis Creek trail trail east for about half a mile to the junction of the Willis Gulch Cutoff. Follow the Willis Gulch Cutoff trail uphill and contour for about a mile to reach the Willis Gulch Trail and follow that trail uphill to the south. After 0.4 miles, you'll reach the Big Willis Gulch Trail junction. Do not take the right on the Big Willis Gulch Trail. Stay straight on the trail to Hope Pass, eventually passing through clearings with increasingly better views. From treeline to the pass is about a mile on a mostly gradual trail with switchbacks. Enjoy the views at the pass then retrace your route back down.

Contacts

Shared By:

Justin Talbot

Trail Ratings

  5.0 from 2 votes

#4

in Twin Lakes

#1594

Overall
  5.0 from 2 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#4

in Twin Lakes

#295

in Colorado

#1,594

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Photos

Hope Pass as seen from near Leadville
Apr 27, 2024 near Leadvil…, CO

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