Western Wanderlust Chronicles

They say adventure begins at the end of the road you know, and for us, that meant hitting the curvy dirt roads leading to beautiful, remote places. Our latest Jeep expedition took us to the “Gulches” near Deckers, Colorado, where we conquered three of the most popular trails in the Pikes Peak region: Hackett Gulch, Longwater Gulch, and Metberry Gulch.

The Gulches: A Trio of Thrills

Hackett Gulch, Longwater Gulch, and Metberry Gulch each offer unique challenges and stunning scenery. Connected by the Platte River, these trails form a loop that promises a mix of fun obstacles, deep water crossings, sandy roads, and steep climbs. The adventure culminates with the reward of relaxing by the South Platte River, soaking up the sun and the serene surroundings.

Metberry Gulch: The Start of an Epic Journey

Our journey began with Metberry Gulch, known for its fun obstacles and dramatic scenery. The trail’s narrow, rocky paths and steep inclines made for an exhilarating drive right from the start. The descent towards the river was steep and required careful navigation, but the reward at the end made it all worthwhile.

Longwater Gulch: Scenic and Challenging

Next, we tackled Longwater Gulch, which offered a mix of tight, twisty paths and wide, open stretches. After a quick trip through the trees, we entered the burn area from the 2002 Hayman Fire. The stark, charred landscape provided a striking contrast to the lush forests we had just passed through. Despite the devastation, the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys were breathtaking. The trail wound up and down ridges, gradually descending toward the South Platte River.

Hackett Gulch: The Final Stretch

Our adventure continued with Hackett Gulch. As we navigated the trail, we encountered several difficult obstacles that tested our driving skills and our Jeep’s capabilities. The first of three deep water crossings added an element of excitement. The sandy roads and rocky terrain kept us on our toes, and the steep climbs provided a thrilling challenge.

Relaxing by the South Platte River

Reaching the South Platte River felt like arriving at an oasis. We crossed the river and found a spacious area to park and relax. We spent time unwinding by the water, enjoying the peaceful sounds of the flowing river, and basking in the warmth of the sun. It was the perfect spot to eat lunch, stretch out, and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Reflections on the Hayman Burn Area

Driving through the burn area of the Hayman Fire was a poignant reminder of nature’s power and resilience. The fire, which destroyed much of the region in 2002, has left behind a landscape that is both haunting and beautiful. The skeletal remains of trees stand as silent witnesses to the past, while new growth emerges, signaling the area’s slow but steady recovery.

Conclusion

Our Jeep adventure near Deckers was an unforgettable experience filled with thrilling trails, stunning landscapes, and moments of peaceful reflection by the river. The “Gulches” offered the perfect blend of challenge and reward, reminding us why we love exploring these rugged, off-the-beaten-path destinations. As we packed up and prepared to head back, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the day’s journey and eager for our next adventure.