Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in EMPIRE, Colorado
Empire sits at the base of Berthoud Pass in Clear Creek County, tucked into a valley where several drainages converge and old mining roads fan out in every direction.
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Empire sits at the base of Berthoud Pass in Clear Creek County, tucked into a valley where several drainages converge and old mining roads fan out in every direction. That history is a practical advantage for hikers: the network of former haul roads and spur routes — including Bard Creek Road, Butler Gulch Trail, Bill Moore Lake Road, and the Old Berthoud Pass Road — gives you a range of options that suit everything from a casual morning walk to a solid half-day push into the high country. Most of the 50 active listings around Empire skew easy to moderate, which makes this a reasonable base for hikers who want alpine scenery without committing to a technical summit. Mount Flora Trail and Mill Creek Ridge Trail step things up to moderate and will get your legs working, while Hassell Lake offers a moderate out-and-back with a clear destination. The terrain transitions quickly from valley floor to exposed ridgeline, so even the easier routes can feel committing once you're above treeline. Empire itself is small, so plan your logistics — gas, food, and gear — before you arrive rather than counting on resupply in town.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time of year to hike around Empire?
July through September is the reliable window for most trails, including the higher routes like Mount Flora Trail and Mill Creek Ridge Trail. Snow can linger on north-facing slopes and above treeline well into June, and it can return by October. The valley-level roads such as Mad Creek Road and Bard Creek Road tend to open earlier in spring and stay accessible later into fall.
Are the trails around Empire suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, a good portion of the network is beginner-friendly. Lincoln Mountain Trail Road, Mines Peak Trail, Butler Gulch Trail, and several of the spur roads are rated easy and follow old mining roads with manageable grades. The PAW Educational Trail is also worth checking out if you're hiking with kids. Just keep in mind that elevation in this area starts well above 8,000 feet, so even easy routes can feel harder than expected if you're coming from lower altitude.
Do I need a permit or pass to hike these trails?
Most of the routes listed here are on National Forest land and don't require a permit for day hiking. Some trailheads may require a parking pass depending on the specific access point, so check with the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests before your trip. The Col. State Land listing suggests at least one parcel involves Colorado State Land Board property, which may have different access rules.
What gear should I bring for a day hike out of Empire?
Layers are non-negotiable — afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer and temperatures drop fast above treeline. Bring a rain shell even on clear mornings. Traction devices aren't necessary in summer but are worth having if you're hiking in June or after an early fall snow. Water sources exist along many of these routes, but treat anything you collect from streams.
Is the Old Berthoud Pass Road accessible by foot year-round?
The lower sections can be walkable in shoulder seasons, but the upper portions of the Old Berthoud Pass Road are subject to snow closure and may not be fully passable on foot until late June in a typical year. Conditions vary significantly by season and snowpack, so check current road and trail conditions with the local Forest Service office before heading out.
