Dome Rock Trail

Due to an unfortunate change of policy, starting July 1st 2020, a valid hunting or fishing license will be required for everyone 18 or older attempting to access any State Wildlife Area or State Trust Land. This includes the Dome Rock Trail which was previously open to all hikers at no charge. Read more at cpw.state.co.us

Dome Rock State Wildlife Area is located west of Highway 67 about halfway between Divide and Cripple creek. A network of trails is available throughout the area including connecting trails to the Mueller State Park to the north. The main feature is the huge granite Dome Rock located in the west part of the area. This spectacular hike will take you through canyons, past numerous rock outcrops, beautiful meadows, a creek with beaver dams and more. Enjoy views of Pikes Peak and huge golden aspen groves in fall.

Dome Rock Trail (#46) starts at the Parking Area off the Frourmile road. Following the creek the trail descends through a narrow canyon. Once you reach an open meadow with beaver dams stay on the right. There will be few spots on this trail where you will have to cross the creek. Sometimes you can get across by hopping on larger rocks but plan on getting wet or taking your shoes off.

After about 2.3 miles you will reach the remains of Jack Rabbit lodge. A connecting trail to the north leads to the Mueller State Park. The trail west of ruins is only open July 16th through November 30th due to the Bighorn Sheep lambing season. Another 2.3 miles down the trail you will reach the overlook of the Dome Rock itself. This is great place for a picnic and possibly a turning point for a 9 mile round trip trail.

You may choose to do a full loop by returning via Spring Creek Trail (#43). Circling the Dome Rock from the south the trail climbs taking you through large aspen groves that are particularly worth seeing in the fall. The trail later merges with Willow Creek (#40). As you reach the top of the ridge, views to the south and Pikes Peak to the east open up. Eventually you will descend back to the starting point at the parking lot.

Distance: Dome Rock overlook - 4.6 miles one way / Full loop via Spring Creek Trail - 10.5 miles

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Directions: Take US-24 west. Turn south on US-67 in Divide. Drive for 5.4 miles and then turn right on 4 Mile Road. Drive another 2 miles on the dirt road and the trail head parking lot will be on your right side.

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