Hessie Trailhead
Hessie Trailhead provides access to Indian Peaks Wilderness and Devils Thumb, Lost Lake, King Lake, Woodland Lake and Diamond Lake trails. Approximately one mile of trails leading west lie outside the Indian Peaks boundary. West of the boundary, wilderness regulations apply and permits are required for camping. This trailhead is extremely popular during the summer months and parking is limited. Please use the Boulder County Hessie Shuttle on summer and fall weekends and holidays. In winter, access is typically from the town of Eldora.
General Information
Camping permits required for all overnight trips between June 1 and September 15. Overnight permits cost $5 per group, per trip from June 1 through September 15.
Organized groups are required to have a permit for both camping and day hiking year round. Day hiking permits are free.
Motorized equipment and mechanized transportation are prohibited.
Pets must be on a hand-held leash at all times.
Campfires are prohibited year round.
Campsites must be at least 100 feet away from water and trail.
Group size is limited to 12 (people and livestock combined).
Processed weed-free feed is required for stock.
Fishing and hunting permitted in accordance with regulations established by the Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
Dogs must be on a hand-held leash.
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 39.9547
Longitude: -105.6025
Directions
From Nederland, head south on Colorado Highway 119 for 0.6 miles. Turn west onto County Road 130, signed for Eldora. Follow the paved road through the valley to the Town of Eldora, where the pavement ends. Continue beyond the end of the pavement for 0.75 miles to the fork in the road. The left fork goes to Hessie Trailhead.
Parking
Parking is limited and located near the trailhead and Hessie Cabin.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.
Certified weed-free hay required.
