Lizard Rock Trail #658


Near the top, this trail approaches a rock formation that resembles a lizard, thus the name "Lizard Rock Trail." Several loops, some large, can be made from the end of the Lizard Rock Trail. Some of the loops might include the Lake Park, Brookside/McCurdy, Hankins Pass, Goose Creek, McCurdy Park and Ute Creek trails. The Lost Creek Wilderness boundary is located at the end of the Lizard Rock trail. Ensure that you are familiar with wilderness regulations if you continue into the wilderness.

At a Glance

Operational Hours: Although open year-round, access during the winter may be limited due to snow.
Permit Info:

There is a mandatory self-issuing permit system in the Mount Evans and Lost Creek Wilderness areas to enable us to better manage visitation. The same type of system is also in place in other Wildernesses. The intent is to use the data obtained through the permit system to more accurately assess the amounts and types of existing Wilderness use. This enables us to better preserve their natural condition for future generations, balanced against the pressures of growing populations and increased use. These permits have no quotas associated with them nor are there any fees required to obtain them. They are available free at each trailhead. As you enter the Wilderness, fill out the provided permit and deposit the stub in the slot in the lower front of the register box. Keep the permit in your possession and please follow the Wilderness regulations found on the back.

Open Season: Open year-round
Restrictions: The following regulations / restrictions apply to the Lost Creek Wilderness:
  • No motorized equipment (chainsaws, drills, etc.) or mechanized transportation (bicycles, wagons, etc.)
  • No landing or dropping of supplies by aircraft (including parasails)
  • Groups size is limited to 15 persons and/or 10 pack or saddle animals in any one party.
  • Dogs must be leashed.
  • Camp at least 100 feet from lakes, streams, or trails.
  • Campfires must be at least 100 feet from lakes, streams or trails.
  • Hobble, tie, or tether any pack or saddle animals at least 100 feet from lakes, streams or trails.
  • All livestock feed must be processed and weed free.
  • Do not cut switchbacks.
  • Pack it in; pack it out.
  • Practice Leave No Trace principles.
Information Center: Appears on the following maps:
  • Pike National Forest
  • USGS Quad Green Mountain
  • National Geographic Trails Illustrated #135 (Deckers / Rampart Range)
  • National Geographic Trails Illustrated #105 (Tarryall Mountains / Kenosha Pass)
  • USGS Topo: McCurdy Mountain
Contact the South Platte Ranger District at 303.275.5610 for more information.

General Information

Accessibility:

This trail is open year round; however, weather may make access difficult especially in the winter and spring months.


Directions:

Access:

  • Spruce Grove Trailhead (8,520 ft. elevation): The Lizard Rock Trail leads north to Wilderness boundary and the Hankins Pass Trail.

Located at the Spruce Grove Campground on Tarryall Road 3 miles southeast of the Twin Eagles trailhead. Parking is located at a small lot outside the campground gate.


General Notes:

Park at the trailhead parking, outside the Spruce Grove campground, if you are not staying in the campground. Walk through the campground (stay right on loop), past the outhouse and across the bridge over Tarryall Creek. Make a hard left, passing through a boulder tunnel, to start on the Lizard Rock Trail.

Connecting Trails:


Activities

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Highlights

  • 'Queen of the 14ers' Link opens in a new window

    She is the agency’s Colorado Fourteeners Program manager; others simply refer to her as ‘Queen of the 14ers’.