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Goose Creek is in the southern section of the Lost Creek Wilderness Area, about 40 miles southwest of Denver. This area previously was one of the three National Scenic Areas and provides many spectacular rock formations, underground streams, caves, and a couple of arches. The area is at a lower altitude than many others and opens up earlier in the spring than many areas in the mountains. How to get there: Take US 285 west to Pine Junction, turn left on CO126, and drive south for 22 miles through the towns of Pine and Buffalo Creek. As soon as you pass Wigwam Campground be on the lookout (.25 mile) for the turn onto the road to Cheesman Lake (CR211). Continue up the narrow winding gravel road for approximately 3 miles. At the top, make a right turn (do not descend to Cheesman Lake) and follow CR211 another 9 miles to Goose Creek Campground, continue an additional 2 miles, and turn right on the first major road. Continue until you dead end at the trailhead parking area noted on the map as (P)1. The trail: Take the trailhead on the west side of the parking area to the bottom of the hill; turn right at Hankins Pass Trail (FS630). Follow the trail east down the hill to Goose Creek, then along the river to the metal bridge. At the bridge, you can follow the fishermen\'s trail on the west side of the creek approximately .75 mile to backpack campsites. The other alternative is to cross the bridge continuing upriver .75 miles until the trail splits. Campsites are located on the west bank of Goose Creek where the trail splits. Crossing the river can be achieved by crossing logs 300 feet back down the river. Another crossing can be found upriver .25 miles by scrambling across large boulders in the creek. There are about 6 locations on the west side of the creek where a troop can camp. Distance from trailhead to campsite is 2 miles. This is a good location for the first backpack trip of the season. Note of warning: Take extra caution with Scouts when crossing this river in the springtime when water is high and fast.
Created on: 2024-09-07 16:36:43
Last edited by: rhall290472 On: 2024-09-22 11:59:20