Trip
Ascending Hikes – Ben Tyler Trail
Ascending Hikes Section (AHS): From the Rock Creek TH this beautiful trail meanders through forest and tundra and ascends to an open landscape. We will have the option to ascend another 450 ft to an unnamed high point, depending on how the group is doing. Minimum round trip ~11 miles and ~2400 ft elevation gain. Pace around 2.0-2.4 mph at lower elevations. At higher altitudes pace may drop to 1.6-2.0 mph. This is the twelfth in a summer series of AHS hikes.
- Mon, Jul 13, 2026
- Ascending Hikes Section
- Hiking
- Adults
- Moderate
- Mileage: 11.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 2,400 ft
- High Point Elevation: 11,654 ft
- Pace: 1.5 - 2.0 MPH
- 9 (9 capacity)
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
This is an enchanting out-n-back hike from the Rock Creek Trailhead along the Ben Tyler Trail to the saddle between South Twin Cone Peak and Kenosha Peak, where nature’s beauty unfolds with every step. The journey begins with a gentle ascent through lush forests of aspen and pine, the trail meandering alongside babbling brooks and vibrant wildflower meadows. As we gain elevation, panoramic views of rugged peaks and verdant valleys emerge, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. The trail’s serene ambiance, coupled with the whispering winds and occasional wildlife sightings, creates a tranquil escape. Reaching the saddle, hikers are rewarded with a sweeping overlook of Colorado’s pristine wilderness, and for those with extra energy, an attempt to summit Kenosha Peak adds an adventurous finale to this captivating trek. We'll find a comfortable spot for lunch/snack before returning to the trailhead via the same route. Our pace will be consistent with completing this trip in a reasonable amount of time. Overall ~11 miles and 2400 ft elevation gain. (Ben Tyler Trail to Saddle - CalTopo)
Carpool Place & Time: Meet at the Morrison PnR at C470 and Morrison exit at 6:00 A.M. for 6:15 AM departure (Morrison PnR - Google Maps)
We'll carpool to the Rock Creek TH Parking Lot (Rock Creek/South Ben Tyler Trailhead - Google Maps)
Required Equipment
10 essentials are required. Trekking poles are recommended.