Near Lookout Mountain Trail
Views opening up of the Indian Peaks
Near Lookout Mountain Trail
Big views from the Lookout
Near Lookout Mountain Trail
The "lookout" with Longs Peak in the background
Near Lookout Mountain Trail
Columbines grow everywhere along the trail!
Near Lookout Mountain Trail
One of the many stream crossings

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Lookout Mountain Trail

4.3 (12 Ratings)
An unknown gem of the front range!
4.7
mi
Distance
2,030
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Views

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
4.73mi
Distance
2,030ft
Elevation Gain
2,030ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
10,704ft
High Point
8,716ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
From the interesection of CO-7 and US-36 in Estes Park, drive approximately 12 miles south, or from the intersection of CO 72 can CO-7 drive approximately 7.5 miles north, to Boulder County Road 113N and turn West (the only way possible). CR 113N is across CO-7 from the Meeker Park Lodge. Drive a little more than a half mile to the end of 113N. Don't continue on the private driveway. Park in one of only three or four spots.The trail proceeds WNW from the road and its start is marked with a small wooden sign saying "-> TRAIL." After about fifty yards there will be a faint trail on your right, avoid this and continue straight. After another 300 yards there will be a trail on your left which immediately crosses Horse Creek on a foot bridge after departing from the main trail. This trail leads to Wild Basin. Again, avoid this trail and continue straight. After this point the trail becomes steep as it winds its way through thick forest. After about two miles you'll come to a sandy saddle between Lookout Mtn and Mt Meeker. The way to Meeker (via the Meeker Ridge Route) may be partially blocked by logs. Look for cairns to your left (SE). Follow the cairns for 1/4 mile to the summit of Lookout. The final move onto the summit block is class 3. Know your limits, and don't do what you can't undo.Even without making the final move Lookout offers some of the very best views of the area.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Nick Wilder