Short, Sweet, and Steep

This scenic hike near Fort Collins overlooks the Poudre Canyon.

The Black Powder Trail is a great hike located just 15 miles outside of Fort Collins at the Gateway Natural Area. It is a short and steep trail that climbs high above the canyon. Though there is a seven dollar day pass fee, there is plenty to explore in the area! To get to the trail, you cross over the Cache La Poudre River and take a short walk along the river to the trailhead.

The trail is a mile and a half long and ascends 430 feet up to the summit, landing at 5,824 feet above sea level. My friend Maddy and I had a lot of catching up to do when we went on this hike. Therefore, I had to stop a few times to catch my breath while walking and talking up the steep hill.

This trail is limited on shade after the first mile, I recommend starting early in the morning and wearing sunscreen! We got to the trailhead about 9:45am. However, it got hot quick! After you get above the trees, you can look back and catch a view of Seaman Reservoir.

Maddy and I hiked this trail in early July. Though some of the spring-time green had already faded, the yellow wildflowers were plentiful and bright!

Take time to explore!

Gateway Natural Area offers multiple hiking options, picnic areas, fishing, and is a popular launch point for river activities. After our hike, Maddy introduced me to a game she calls “pooh sticks.” First, you find a good looking stick. Then, you stand on the bridge facing upstream. Count down from three and drop your sticks at the same time into the river. Finally, scamper over to the other side of the bridge and wait. The winner of the game is the owner of the stick that appears from under the bridge first. Sometimes simplicity is the greatest joy!

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For more information on Gateway Natural area, please visit: https://www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/finder/gateway

If you’d like to check out a hike in the Big Thompson Canyon, click here: https://wanderingprose.com/sullivan-gulch-estes-park-hiking/