Exploring Colorado: Waldo Canyon Trail

date: 12/10/2011
activity: hike
distance: 7 miles
time: 3 hours

I hiked Waldo Canyon on a very nice, 40 degree Saturday morning in December. At the onset, there were only a few cars in the parking lot, but when I completed the hike there were 20 or 25. Get an early start in the winter if you want a parking spot and to finish by dawn (about 4:30 pm this time of year).

Of the 2 dozen or so people I saw while on the trail, almost half were trail runners. They were a little more brave than me, there were various spots of ice and snow, especially on the north facing sides of the trail. I was also passed by a group of 5 mountain bikers, who flew by me going downhill (also very brave souls).

This is a moderate to easy trail that took around 3 to 3.5 hours to complete the 7 mile balloon loop. On nicer days, dont worry about bringing more than a couple bottles of water and maybe a few snacks. Much of the trail has great views of Pikes Peak and Waldo Canyon. Nice views and a great half-day hike.