Hewlett Gulch Trail

The Hewlett Gulch Trailhead is located about 25 minutes outside Fort Collins in the Poudre Canyon. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it can get very busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.

Yes, the Hewlett Gulch Trail is very dog-friendly! Dogs are allowed off-leash under voice control in many areas, and there are numerous water crossings along Gordon Creek for them to cool off.

The Hewlett Gulch Trail is accessible year-round. While it offers a diverse experience in all seasons, caution is advised in winter due to potential wet and icy conditions, for which microspikes are recommended. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery.

No, permits are not required, and there is no entrance fee to hike the Hewlett Gulch Trail. It is located within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, which generally do not require permits for day hiking on trails like this one.

The trail offers flexibility. You can hike an out-and-back route, especially along the flatter initial sections. For a loop experience, the trail forks around the two-mile mark. Taking the left fork leads to a steeper climb with switchbacks and expansive views, while the right fork remains relatively flat, leading to impressive rock formations. The full loop is an 8.2-mile round trip.

The terrain varies. The initial two miles are generally level or gradually inclined on a well-maintained path with numerous river crossings. The left fork of the loop involves a steeper, one-mile climb with switchbacks, while the right fork remains flatter. The trail passes through forested gulches, meadowlands, and rocky areas, with a mix of exposed grassy plains and scattered pines and junipers. Some sections also show effects of past fires.

Along the trail, you'll find gorgeous scenery including views of mountains, unique rock formations, and the babbling waters of Gordon Creek. As you ascend, particularly on the left fork, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Front Range and the valley below. Notable points include the Hewlett Gulch Trailhead and the Hewlett Gulch Trail Split. You might also spot wildlife like bighorn sheep and deer, and historical elements such as old homestead foundations and mines.

The Hewlett Gulch Trail is generally rated as moderate. The initial two miles are relatively flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for beginners or families looking for an easier out-and-back option. The full loop, with its steeper sections and 1,125 feet of elevation gain, is more challenging but still manageable for those with some hiking experience.

The area is home to various wildlife. Hikers often spot bighorn sheep and deer. Birdwatchers may also see robins, flickers, and jays. Always observe wildlife from a respectful distance.

When hiking in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, it's important to practice Leave No Trace principles. This includes packing out all trash, staying on marked trails, and respecting wildlife. While dogs are allowed off-leash in many areas of Hewlett Gulch, always ensure they are under voice control. Campfires may be restricted during certain times of the year, so check local conditions before visiting.

At the two-mile split, choosing the left fork (clockwise for the loop) offers a steeper, quicker ascent with switchbacks, rewarding you with expansive valley views earlier. The right fork (counter-clockwise or out-and-back) remains relatively flat for another mile, leading to impressive rock formations and more river crossings, ideal if you prefer less elevation gain or a shorter, easier hike.