This trail begins west of the Bakersville I-70 exit and just east of the Loveland Ski Area. The first section of the trail climbs up an old jeep road through the forest. At about 1 1/2 miles it reaches timberline and climbs into alpine meadows where the wildflowers are abundant in late June and July. Above timberline, follow the rock cairns to Herman Lake. The trail follows a creek all the way up the gulch with numerous places to camp. The view of the gulch and surrounding peaks from the lake is spectacular. Pettingell Peak and Hagar Mountain can be climbed from the lake. Both peaks reach above 13,000 feet.

Directions: From Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Take exit 218 off of I-70. At the stop sign turn right and then turn right again and take the frontage road east to the parking area. The trail begins by the restrooms in the parking lot.

Elevation: 10,400 feet

Ending Elevation: 12,000 feet

Elevation Gain: 1,100 feet

Distance: 2.5 miles

Usage: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

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