Trip
Leader in Training (LIT) Trip – Golden Gate Canyon State Park - Ralston Roost Trailhead Loop
The Ralston Roost Loop is about a 5 mile hike in the Golden Gate Canyon State Park that follows the Black Bear Trail from the Black Bear Trailhead to Ralson Roost at 9,320ft then down through Frazier Meadow to the Horseshoe trail and back over the ridge to return to the parking lot.
Contacts
- Wed, Apr 29, 2026
- Denver
- Hiking
- Adults
- Moderate
- Mileage: 4.5 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,300 ft
- High Point Elevation: 9,316 ft
- Pace: 1.5 - 2.0 MPH
- FULL, 3 on waitlist (4 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
The Black Bear Trail is a somewhat steep and rocky trail up to Ralston Roost where we will stop for a snack. The trail is well marked and not very difficult. Poles are helpful. After 2.8 miles, Black Bear Trail meets Mule Deer Trail, which leads to Frazer Meadow. Frazer Meadow has ruins of the Frazer Homestead. We will return to the trailhead via the 1.8 mile Horseshoe Trail, which partially runs along a creek. The hike ends with short climb back over the ridge to descend to the parking lot. Our pace will be about 2.0 and we will adjust as needed to make it comfortable for all group members. Overall this hike is a little under 5 miles and ~1400 ft elevation gain most of which is in the first 2.5 miles. (Ralston Roost Loop - CalTopo)
Carpool Place & Time: Colorado Mountain Club Basecamp (Colorado Mountain Club - Google Maps) at 8:00AM for an 8:15AM departure.
We'll carpool to the Black Bear Trailhead parking (Black Bear Trail - Google Maps)
Drivers will need a CO State Park Pass.
There are no restrooms at the trailhead.
Badges
leaders will earn:
CMC Trip Leader School
Required Equipment
10 essentials are required. Trekking poles are recommended.