Chief Mountain Trail

Type … Hike

Highlights … Summit Views, Wildflowers

Seasons … Summer + Fall

Difficulty with Kids … Moderate to Hard due to consistent elevation gain going up

Trail Details … 2.8 Miles, Out + Back (AllTrails)

Closest Town … Evergreen

Shade … Some

Parking Situation … Limited roadside parking close to trailhead but we’ve never had an issue

Potty Situation … No Potty!

One of my absolute favorite trails close to home is Chief Mountain as it offers some of the best panoramic views in the area. The trek up is short with a pretty consistent incline but totally doable for older kids or parents toting kids in carriers. The trail offers plenty of shade for snack breaks and has a mix of forest and ridgeline views.

During peak summer months, the summit is covered with wildflowers and you might even see a marmot up in the rocks. The 360-degree view from the summit is stunning and worth every single step to get there!

TRAIL TIPS

Up in the clouds. You start from a high altitude (10,600 ft) so just make sure anyone who is tagging along who doesn’t live at altitude is acclimated first!
Layer up! It is always windy at the summit so be prepared to layer up once you get above treeline (side note - if it’s windy at lower elevations, I would leave this hike for a different day!)
Hidden trailhead - see map below. The trailhead is VERY hidden and marked by a teeny, tiny sign on the left hand side of the road if you’re headed up. Mapping from AllTrails or even Google should help you find it but don’t get discouraged if you can’t find it right away. I don’t have get any cell service up here either so make sure you start your driving map at the base of Squaw Pass.
Explore at the top. Make sure you explore the summit area once you get up there as there are a few different viewpoints of the mountains to see!

MAKE A DAY OF IT

Campfire Evergreen. Stop for pizza, s’mores, and a patio hang at Campfire Evergreen. They have an outdoor playground for kids too!
Evergreen Lake. While you’re out towards Evergreen, it’s worthwhile to make a pitstop at Evergreen Lake after your hike. You can paddle board/kayak or just have a chill picnic.
Mount Blue Sky. If your crew has it in the tank, you can continue driving up to the summit of Mount Blue Sky (advance time-entry pass required and only open Memorial Day - Labor Day typically). It’s only about a 20-25 minute drive from the Chief Mountain Trailhead.