Hewlett Gulch (#954)

Horses and riders get ready to cross a small creek on the Hewlett Gulch Trail.

The trail leads north following an old road along Gordon Creek past foundations remaining from homesteads established between 1911 and 1925. At the two mile mark there is a fork in the trail. The main trail continues north and winds through a narrow canyon with many stream crossings before heading uphill out of the creek drainage into a meadow. To the left a steep and un-maintained trail is visible. This non-system route leaves the stream and eventually loops back to connect with the trail. Hewlett Gulch trailhead accommodates approximately 22 vehicles. (no trailer parking)

You can find more information at the Poudre Wilderness Volunteers website. Download the Hewlett Gulch trail summary page and profile.

At a Glance

Usage:	Heavy
Restrictions:	Trail Regulations: No motorized equipment, respect private property, removal or damage to historic artifacts is prohibited, weed-free hay is required for stock
Closest Towns:	Fort Collins
Water:	Water can be filtered and treated from nearby water sources.
Restroom:	Practice Leave No Trace principles.

General Information

Directions: Travel 11 miles northwest of Fort Collins on U.S. Highway 287 to Colorado Highway 14. Turn left on CO 14, and travel 10.5 miles to a bridge on the right across the Poudre River to the trailhead.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Day Hiking

This low elevation trail heads north, following an old road heading up Gordon Creek. Along the trail, you may notice building foundations scattered along the gulch. These are 1911 – 1925 homestead remains of old Poudre Park. The trail cuts through a narrow canyon crossing the stream several times. Eventually the trail will leave the stream and head uphill to your left. When the trail starts to reach open range, you will notice a private property fence boundary to your right where the official trail ends. Mountain bikers frequent this trail. The springtime flower display is worth a visit. Hewlett Gulch trailhead accommodates approximately 22 vehicles. (no trailer parking)

Fire Information	Check for any seasonal fire restrictions before your hike. Campfires must be at least 100 feet from water and trails. You may collect dead and down wood; do not break branches from standing trees for firewood. Please attend to campfires at all times. Touch any remaining coals with the bare hand to insure campfire is cold and dead out. Remember, if it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave!
Difficulty Level:	Easy

Backpacking

Hewlett Gulch trailhead accommodates approximately 22 vehicles. There is no designated trailer parking.

Fire Information	Check for any seasonal fire restrictions before your hike. Campfires must be at least 100 feet from water and trails. You may collect dead and down wood; do not break branches from standing trees for firewood. Please attend to campfires at all times. Touch any remaining coals with the bare hand to insure campfire is cold and dead out. Remember, if it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave!
Difficulty Level:	Easy