Butler Gulch(edit)

Overview

This is a moderately difficult OB trail in Arapaho National Forest. May be difficult for out-of-towners as it tops out at almost 12,000'. Climb up through montane, sub-alpine, and alpine zones. Stream and sun along the trail offers multiple flower-viewing areas. The alpine meadows at the top are right under the continental divide. Trail ends officially at an old mine (including equipment) but one can continue left and climb up to the Continental Divide Trail. This also is a great snowshoe route in winter.

Getting Started

Enter the Henderson Mine area left off CO-40 past Empire but divert right to the dirt Jones Pass Road just before the mine entry gate. Drive in as far as possible, turning left at the Butler Gulch sign. However, since the area fills quite early in the morning, if you see the road's parking areas filling on the left overlooking the mine, best to stop and park there. Then walk up to the TH.

Taking Children

Good for children but may have to carry little ones at the top.