McClintock Upper

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

One very steep rocky section, otherwise good trail surface.

Starting from the junction with the Enchanted Mesa Trail near the stone bridge, the McClintock Upper Trail climbs steadily above Bluebell Creek. This creek caused much damage during the 2013 floods. Pause during your ascent to enjoy the grand views of Green Mountain and the Flatirons looming ahead. Wind through a huge grove of widely spaced ponderosa pines, keeping an eye out for deer and delicate wildflowers. There are innumerable embedded rocks and roots on the trail, but these obstacles are easily avoided. The grade increases noticeably just before the trail terminates at a T-intersection with the Mesa Trail. There are a handful of unmarked, fainter side trails near the top of McClintock Upper Trail- these are mostly forestry access paths and can be ignored.

Historical note: the McClintock Trails were named after the Chautauqua Park board member (Henry McClintock) whose family donated funds for interpretive trail signage.

Ponderosa pine, deer, wildflowers.