Bard Creek (#83)
Visitors can either begin at the Herman Gulch Trailhead or near Empire off Forest Service Road 777.1. Traveling through fields of wildflowers and groves of aspen trees, Bard Creek Trail (9.6 miles one-way) offers countless photo opportunities. There are also wonderful scenic views of the Continenental Divide. Going west from Empire, the last mile of the trail joins with the Watrous Gulch Trail (#95) near I-70.
General Information
View a COTREX trail map here.
Motorized use is prohibited.
Dogs must be on a hand-held leash.
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 39.7359
Longitude: -105.7372
Elevation
10,150 feet - 12,048 feet
Directions
Out of the town of Empire, follow County Road 252 (South Empire Pass Road) for about two miles. The road becomes very rough, and you may need a 4-wheel drive vehicle to travel the remaining three miles of National Forest System Road (NFSR) 777.The trail starts at the end of the road.
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 is required.
