Recreation Region: Clear Creek Ranger District

Bard Creek Trail

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 Continental Divide. Going west from Empire, the last mile of the trail joins with the Watrous Gulch Trail (#95) near I-70.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

#83

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Elevation: 10,150 feet - 12,048 feet

View a COTREX trail map here.

Motorized use is prohibited. Dogs must be on a hand-held leash. Certified weed-free hay is required.

Getting There

Trailhead/Starting Points

Herman Gulch Trailhead

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.