Another great recommendation from the book Colorado's Best Wildflower Hikes, Volume 1: The Front Range.

This 5 mile round trip hike was very rewarding for wildflowers. Called a 'century' hike, it can offer at peak bloom more than 100 species of blooming plants. We did in fact discover 3 entirely new (to us) species for our collection.

The elevation gain of 1973 feet and the moderate to strenuous trail rating almost intimidated us away from this hike but we were pleased to notice that our stamina held up very well. This was likely aided by the snails pace that we maintained during much of the outing since we tended to stop and photograph everything in sight.

The steep ascent of the trail began through a forested section with frequent creeks crossing it. After breaking out of the trees we found ourselves in a beautiful flower covered meadow backed by a 'bowl' of mountains. At the far end of the bowl we found the remnants of a mine with rusting equipment to prove it. Rather than an alpine lake we stumbled on a pretty pond. The idyllic pond turned into a boiling pot almost immediately. The prediction of rain came on strong with hail to boot!

Umbrella and hoodies were deployed for a good 10-15 minutes while we explored the top of the world at Butler Gulch. The warm day and appropriate clothing saw us through nicely. A suddenly as it began, the storm moved past us leaving sparkling raindrops on plants and a lovely sunshine drying us on the hike out.

Enjoy a virtual tour of Butler Gultch!