Pierson Park Road
Larimer County, Colorado
View this on the Colorado Trailheads Map

Nearby Towns: Estes Park, Lyons
Nearby Trails: Johnny Park Road, Pole Hill
Trail Length: 8.1 miles
Elevation: 8,286 to 9,364 feet

This is the perfect trail to get away from the city and really get out in the mountains. You spend a lot of time in the trees with no room to pull off, making you feel like you're really surrounded by trees. This trail is typically run from the north to the south end because there is a long uphill climb in that direction and uphill has the right-of-way.

You start on the outskirts of Estes Park in a residential area, and the trailhead starts as the end of the easy road at a seasonal gate with forest service road 119 marked with a brown sign.

The early part of the trail is mellow, with some bumpy sections mixed in. You will see 119D as an optional spur on the right. It reconnects with 119 very soon. Stay to the left to stay on 119.

Keep on the most traveled road, following signs for 119. The road takes you through big groves of aspen trees and through big meadows.

Soon the road begins to climb up a hill that is often rocky and loose. The climb is quite long and quite steep in places, and provides a lot of fun. Soon after this rocky climb is a gate. You can pass through the gate, but leave it closed behind you.

At this point the trail continues on through the trees and there are very few places wide enough to pass another vehicle. You really feel that you are passing through the forest. There aren't many trails like this with areas that continue on through tight trees. Though the trees are close, it is wide enough for nearly all vehicles.

The trail gets easier and soon you are out at the intersection with County Road 82. Turn left to go a very short distance to the end of Johnny Park Road, or turn right to go out to Highway 7.

Information last updated on July 2nd, 2007.

Member Reports

• July 16, 2007: ran by Jed and Walt
• June 30, 2007: ran by Don, Ladd, Mike S., Monica, Roger and Todd

Driving Directions

From Denver, go north on I-25 to Highway 66 to Longmont. Go through the north part of Longmont to Lyons where you will continue on Highway 36 toward Estes Park. Just before you get to Lake Estes, turn left on Fish Creek Road. Follow this residential road for just under three miles, and then turn left on Little Valley Road. Follow this road to forest service road 119.

Note that you can also go through Boulder on Highway 36. This may or may not be faster depending on the time of day.

Meeting Places

Meet at the McDonald's at I-25 exit 240. Continue on one exit north to Highway 66 west.

Additional Information

• Current Trail Status (Canyon Lakes Ranger District)