Herman Gulch Trail (Winter)

May 30

ABSTRACT

Explore the winter wonderland of Herman Gulch Trail in Colorado with this comprehensive guide. Learn about the trail's difficulty, necessary equipment, and breathtaking views. Perfect for adventurous hikers looking to tackle a snowy trail with light traffic and stunning mountain scenery. Discover why this hike is a must-do, despite the challenges.

Keywords

Herman Gulch Trail winter hike
Colorado winter hikes
Herman Gulch Trail difficulty
Snowshoeing Herman Gulch
Colorado hikes in May
Herman Gulch Trail equipment
Best winter hikes Colorado
Herman Gulch Trail avalanche safety
Hiking Herman Gulch Trail in snow

Colorado Hikes: Herman Gulch Trail (Winter)

Time of Year: End of May.

Weather: 37 degrees and mostly cloudly.

Cover: 85% tree canopy with large exposed sections.

Time: 8:57 am - 12:29 pm.

Distance: 5.61 miles total.

Cost: No.

Bathroom at Trailhead: Yes (always filthy).

Difficulty: Hard level 1 for altitude (11900 feet), elevation gain (1906 feet), and length (5.61 miles). It's not technical but tough with snowshoes.

Route: Herman Gulch Trail out and back.

Traffic: Light.

Parking: 30% full by 9:00 am.

Equipment: Hiking boots, hiking poles, snowshoes (a must), microspikes. Note: I was testing a new pair of Danner boots. Their warmth, waterproof durability, and lightweight character will keep them in my closet!

Terrain: The first quarter is a mix of dry dirt and snowmelt over small rocks. As you travel further on the path, patches of snow require microspikes before you reach the consistent run of snow 2-4 feet deep. Snowshoes are required for most of the hike.

Experience: Herman Gulch Trail has been on my list of trails for nearly three years. Weather conditions and a past injury extended this time. With the intention of completing this popular hike in May, I kept my eye on the avalanche reports from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center and found the right weekend to approach the trail. Although the area was rated low, I approached the snow-packed trail with caution. After nearly completing it, I believe I may have been on that boundary line of true avalanche risk. Before reaching the last open meadow near Herman Lake, I counted five avalanche hazards. Nevertheless, they seemed safe enough to continue forward. That is until I reached that last open meadow. While the risk was low, the combination of a recent snowfall, 2-4 feet of snow cover, and high winds, forced me to stop short of completion by ten minutes. I figured that it wasn’t worth the risk, and I would certainly return to see the lake this summer. By that point, the views were already remarkable! I was flanked by peaks on each side for the entirety of the hike with a snow-capped peak to guide my movement forward. The trip was even more scenic with distant peaks bathing in sun. I’m already counting the days for my next adventure in the gulch!

Personal Trainer Notes: If my personal training clients are up to the challenge, I will most certainly recommend this hike (only May through September/October though). The blend of non-stop views and quick elevation gain makes this trail an awarding accomplishment whether on snowshoes or not. I see why this trail is so popular during the summer months. Plan appropriately and you’ll avoid the crowds and check off an incredible hike!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MICHAEL MOODY, PERSONAL TRAINER

As an author, a personal trainer in Denver, and podcast host, Michael Moody has helped personal training clients achieve new fitness heights and incredible weight loss transformations since 2005. He also produces the wellness podcast "The Elements of Being" and has been featured on NBC, WGN Radio, and PBS.

Michael offers personal training to Denver residents who want to meet at the 2460 W 26th Ave studio….or in their homes throughout LoHi (80206), LoDo (80202), RiNo (80216), Washington Park (80209), Cherry Creek (80206, 80209, 80243, 80246, 80231), and Highlands (80202, 80211, 80212). Michael also offers experiences with a personal trainer in Jefferson Park (80211) and Sloan's Lake (80204, 80212).

If you’re looking for a personal trainer who can curate a sustainable (and adaptable) routine based on your needs and wants, Michael is the experienced practitioner you’ve been looking for. Try personal training for a month…your body will thank you!