Hike to Bison Peak

To get to the trailhead, take U.S. 24 for approximately 34.5 miles from 31st Street and U.S. 24 in Colorado Springs to Park County Road 77, immediately west of the town of Lake George. Take County Road 77 north for approximately 20 miles to the Ute Creek trailhead.

The Bison Peak Trail is a 12.1 mile out and back hike that begins near Lake George, Colorado and ends at the summit of the highest peak in the Tarryall Mountain Range. The shortest route up Bison Peak is the Ute Creek trailhead on Park County Road 77 (Trail 629). Approximately five miles from the trailhead, Trail 629 intersects with Brookside-McCurdy Trail (Trail 607). Turn right onto 607 to continue on to the summit of Bison Peak.

The first portion of the trail is easy with minimal elevation gain and winds through an open meadow. Once the trail crosses into the Lost Creek Wilderness, there is a steady elevation gain (close to 4,000 feet total) to the summit, and several switchbacks to climb up to the ridge. Once you reach the ridge, you will see a vast plateau with towering boulders, suitably referred to as the "Giant's Playground". 

This hike offers uniquely spectacular views and is well worth the elevation gain.