Bright (#921)
Length: Bright Trailhead (TH) to: North Saint Vrain Creek - 1.7 miles; Creek to Johnny Park Road on the Bright Extension Trail - 1.8 miles. DISTANCES ARE ONE-WAY.
Elevation: 8,700 feet at southern terminus; 7,320 feet at North Saint Vrain Creek; 8,350 feet at northern terminus.
Trail Description: Starting at Bright Trailhead, Bright Trail begins on a high, relatively level hilltop, and drops down the wooded north-facing slope into the North Saint Vrain Creek canyon. This drop is fairly steep with an elevation change of 1,400' in 1.7 miles from trailhead to creek bed. There is no bridge across the creek. Do not attempt to cross during periods of high water.
The steep drop to the North Saint Vrain Creek from the south canyon rim offers views of the canyon, and the peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park.
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At a Glance
Usage: | Light |
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Best Season: | Conditions are best mid-May through late October. |
Restrictions: |
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Closest Towns: | Allenspark, Colorado |
Water: | North Saint Vrain Creek - treat water for drinking |
Restroom: | Practice Leave No Trace principles |
Operated By: | U.S. Forest Service |
General Information
Directions:Three miles south of Allenspark on Colorado Highway 7, turn northeast onto Taylor Mountain Road (Forest Road 330, also signed for Pine Valley Subdivision). Stay on the main gravel road for 0.7 miles as it passes through a subdivision. After crossing a cattle guard, the road degrades to four-wheel-drive for one mile to the Bright Trailhead.
Accessibility:
The Colorado Division of Wildlife has requested that the Forest Service keep Taylor Mountain Road open through the end of the last elk hunt, typically ending in late January. However, the road may not be passable after December 1 due to snow and ice.