BPX Trip – BPX 3-Day: Zirkel Circle from Slavonia TH

This is an exploratory trip for the leader.

Meeting location to be determined.  Six participants total will require carpooling with 2 cars.

Day 1: Drive to Slavonia Trailhead (approx. 3.5 hrs from Golden). Pit toilets. Start hike on the Gilpin Trail #1161 and after about ¼ mile you will reach a fork. Turn right on the Gold Creek Trail (#1150). You will be hiking counter clockwise as the views are much better in this direction. This part of the trail is heavily shaded with some waterfalls. Hike about 3 miles (1,200ft) to Gold Creek Lake and find camping. Note that camping must be at least 1/4mile from the lake.

Day 2: Continue hiking the steady ascent up to Gilpin Lake Trail. After about 1.5 miles you will come to a fork with the Gilpin Lake Trail #570. Turn left on this trail and continue another 1.5 miles to reach gorgeous Gilpin Lake (Total 3 miles and 1,200 ft).  Find camping at least ¼ mile from the lake.

Day 3: Complete the Zirkel Circle by continuing on the Gilpin Lake Trail back to the TH. This final 4.5 miles is virtually all downhill along Gilpin Creek.  (4.5 miles, minimal elevation).