+ 104
Lookout Mountain
Running Route
Moderate
6.88 mi
1,763 ft
The best way to get to the top of Lookout Mountain is to grind up the Chimney Gulch Trail. The trail zigzags through Windy Saddle Park, overlooking the city of Golden. The aptly named park is a favorite launch point for paragliders and hang gliders. Chimney Gulch’s technical single-track trail travels through grassy prairie, pine forests, and over creeks. As you slog your way to the top of the mountain, with an average grade of 10%, keep your head up so you can watch out for the mountain bikers you will surely encounter. Also be aware of cars and cyclists zipping by on Lookout Mountain Road when you cross it twice in each direction. At the second road crossing you will continue on the Lookout Mountain Trail until you reach our turn around point at the Lookout Mountain Nature Center. From here you also have the option to continue on this trail for a longer run and even connect with Apex Park. You could also take a quick trip to the Buffalo Bill Museum and gravesite at the top of Lookout Mountain. If you are heading straight back to the start, enjoy sweeping views on the way back down Chimney Gulch but don’t forget to watch your footing!
Created By
Strava Athlete
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chimney Gulch from 6 to Windy Saddle TH | 2.25 mi | 1,083 ft | 9.0% |
| Lookout/Chimney Gulch RT | 6.76 mi | -1,785 ft | -0.0% |
| Lookout Mountain Road Climb | 0.91 mi | 486 ft | 10.1% |
| Chmney Gulch to Buffalo Bill trail climb | 3.06 mi | 1,506 ft | 9.3% |
| Chimney Gulch Lookout Climb | 3.05 mi | 1,614 ft | 10.0% |
| Chimney Gulch, the middle bit | 1.48 mi | 702 ft | 9.0% |
| Chimney Gulch Trail Climb | 0.39 mi | 157 ft | 7.3% |
| Chimney Gulch Midway Lot to Lookout | 2.48 mi | 1,322 ft | 10.1% |
| Chimney Gulch Trail Climb | 0.44 mi | 207 ft | 8.7% |
| Chimney Gulch Trail Climb | 0.28 mi | 138 ft | 9.2% |
| U.S. 6 Climb | 0.31 mi | 148 ft | 8.9% |
| Chimney Gulch - The Top Bit | 1.06 mi | 617 ft | 11.0% |
| Lookout Mtn. Trail Climb | 0.44 mi | 256 ft | 10.9% |
| Chimney Gulch, full descent, top to 6th Ave | 3.60 mi | -1,752 ft | -9.2% |
| Lookout Chimney Gulch Descent | 3.05 mi | -1,555 ft | -9.6% |