Grizzly Gulch Hike

Temperatures in and around Denver this week soared well into the 90's, setting all-time records.  Not a concern for 11 members of the High Country Hiker group, who found the temperature quite comfortable as they departed the Aurora city fleet van on Stevens Gulch Road, outside Bakerville, Colorado.  Officially, the U.S. Weather Service forecast a high for the entire week in Bakerville (9,787'), of 67 degrees.

Bakerville History:  The first claim for land in the area was made by the towns namesake, John Baker in 1865.  The town would thrive over the next few decades due to the areas rich silver deposits.  In addition. the areas economy was boosted as a result of the railroad extension as far as Georgetown.  Later, as Denver continued to grow through the end of the 1800's, Bakerville became the terminus of a train route from Denver.  Today, the town is listed on a list of over 1,500 ghost towns in Colorado.  None of the original structures have survived.  One image shown below was found on the web.  Today, we saw two structures that appeared to be private residences.  Plus early in the day, we passed an upscale log cabin beside trail.  A cord of freshly cut firewood indicated the place was being used. 

Log farm house and out buildings at Quayle Creek, Circa 1867.

In addition to the historical elements of the area, this O & B hike would have some significance to hikers today.  Beginning at the exit from I-70, the old jeep access road into the Gulch is also the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT), for a short distance.  Ed parked the van at a small pull-off from the jeep road (10,270'), where we prepped for the day.  The group would walk the jeep road/CDT for a short distance before turning off to ford Quayle Creek on foot.

Torrey's Peak towers above us all morning.

On the other side of the creek, trail begins a steady climb into Grizzly Gulch.  We see the first dramatic view of Torrey's Peak (14,267'), one of two popular summits for hikers and peak-baggers alike.  The other is Greys Peak  (14,270'), a short distance East of Torrey's.  The scree-strewn slopes of Torrey's Peak would be in clear view all morning as we gained elevation.

Queen's (Rose) Crown.

Mountain Gentian.

Rosy Indian Paintbrush.

Smooth Aster.

Redstem Cinquefoil.

Tall  Fleabane.

Subalpine Larkspur.

Blue Columbine.

One added feature of historical importance is that of the Josephine Mine.  This mine shaft and mound of tailings can clearly be seen on the slope above. One of the few mines still operating in the area, it's history goes back to 1859.  At the time Grizzly Gulch and the surrounding mountains in Clear Creek County was considered one of the richest areas in the world.  Many abandon mine tailings can be seen all the way up the gulch to the Continental Divide.

Josephine Mine shaft (left) and mine tailings.

As the morning progressed, it became obvious why this would be a good hike.  Views of the towering peaks made me stop on trail often to enjoy the incredible beauty of Mother Nature.

Looking like a coiled snake, this Neolentinus ponderosus mushroom is edible when young.

Mushrooms peeked out from their shrouded domain just off trail.  A few paces to the stream, one could find moss-covered rock formations on display.  Sounds of tumbling water from Grizzly Gulch drainage could be heard throughout the day.  Plus an abundance of wildflowers made it a classic Colorado back country hike.

A Dragonfly surprisingly looks at us as shutters click away.  Image by Robert Saiz.

After the initial stream crossing, we would face four more, none of which were as wide as the first.  As we gained elevation, the rock-strewn slopes of the Continental Divide directly ahead came closer and closer.  Grizzly peak (13,427'), was directly ahead.

As we climb, the sides of the gulch continue to close.  The wide meadows at the first stream crossing have been replaced with thick willow growth and minimal tree growth.  Ahead, nothing but rock scree to the top of the Divide.

Headwaters of Grizzly Gulch, where the High Country Hikers have lunch. Torreys Peak (left), Grizzly Peak (right).  Image by Robert Saiz.

Hikers look to find a spot for lunch.  For some it would be a rock formation, for others a downed tree, and for some, a soft grassy area beside the water, or the shade of a spruce.  Regardless of the choice, we are surrounded by wildflowers.

I would bet $$$$, if any of the other 10 hikers here today were asked if they would rather be here on the mountain instead of back in the city, they would say "Yes."

Total Miles:  6.2

Total Elevation gain:  1,100'