Lake Gulch & Inner Canyon Loop Trail

This loop is a combination of two different trails - the Lake Gulch Trail (L) and the Inner Canyon Trail (K). Both of these trails leave from the Canyon Point Parking Lot, inside the east entrance to the park. 

I personally like the Inner Canyon Trail a lot more, so I like to start off from the Lake Gulch trailhead, which is located by the restrooms and the amphitheater. The trail starts out wide and gravelly, but quickly narrows and turns to dirt as it begins to work its way into the canyon. Be sure to look south at the incredible views of Pikes Peak as you walk. 

Just under a mile on the trail brings you to Cherry Creek. There's a series of boulders you can cross to get to the other side of the creek and connect with the Inner Canyon Trail. This is a great spot to have a picnic lunch and relax - the temperature is generally much nicer closer to the creek. 

From there, follow the signs for the Inner Canyon Trail (K). This leads you over rocks and through oak trees along the creek. It's 1.16 miles back to the parking lot, and you'll end your hike by climbing up a few dozen stairs to get back to the top of the canyon.

Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they are on a leash!