Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
Driving Directions
Hike Route

Blue Sky Out and Back

5.0 (1 Rating)
A scenic, winding hike through the evergreens along the ridge by Vasquez Creek.
3.9
mi
Distance
418
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyRiver/CreekViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.92mi
Distance
418ft
Elevation Gain
418ft
Elevation Loss
15%
Max Grade
9,392ft
High Point
8,973ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
Begin from the Forest Service trailhead on Arapaho Road, right at the edge of town. There is parking for only a few cars, so try to arrive early, or get here by walking or riding a bike instead. Continue along the dirt road for a short distance until the start of Blue Sky to the right.Blue Sky is a gentle climb along the ridge above Vasquez Creek. The trail changes between wide and rocky path on the steeper sections to smooth, sweeping singletrack in the flatter sections through the trees. The top of Blue Sky connects to a fire road where you can turn left or right. Go left and continue up the gradual grade for about 0.4 more miles for the viewpoint. This will lead to a clearing at the junction with FS 152. From here you'll get a satisfying vantage over the valley with a backdrop of Rocky Mountain peaks.If you want to make a loop, continue on this road to Chickadee Trail and then take FS 156 back to your car. For less dirt road walking and a similar round-trip distance, simply turn around and take Blue Sky back the way you came.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

Yankee Doodle Trail

Hike Route

Yankee Doodle Trail

Fall Colors
strenuous
4.75 mi
+822 ft
Pinball Ridge

Classic Hike Route

Pinball Ridge

Fall Colors
strenuous
5.64 mi
+880 ft
South Fork Loop

Hike Route

South Fork Loop

River/Creek
moderate
3.8 mi
+383 ft
Jim Creek Trail

Classic Hike Route

Jim Creek Trail

Family Friendly
moderate
5.9 mi
+1,339 ft
Creekside Loop Hike

Classic Hike Route

Creekside Loop Hike

Fall Colors
easy
2.12 mi
+84 ft
James Peak (13,294') from Corona Pass Road

Hike Route

James Peak (13,294') from Corona Pass Road

Views
moderate
8.28 mi
+2,548 ft
Contributors
Hiking Project Staff