Bard Creek

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4.4/5 (41 reviews)
Empire, Colorado (Clear Creek County)
Last Updated: 10/14/2023

Trail Information

Highlights

Among the old mining trails stretching from Idaho Springs to Silver Plume, Bard Creek Road offers an enchanting journey through the region's history. As you traverse its bumpy climb, you'll uncover vestiges of Colorado's vibrant past, most notably, the Bard Creek Mine with its remarkably intact ore chute. The drive rewards you with remarkable scenery, from glimpses of the valley through the trees to the awe-inspiring vista at Empire Pass. Although less challenging than its neighboring trails, Bard Creek Road doesn't compromise on the visual treat, providing easy access to beautiful landscapes, and as autumn descends, the trail transforms into a vibrant display of fall colors. Bard Creek Road is off the beaten path, and this journey offers a refreshing blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure.


Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

Trail Reviews

4.4/5 (41)
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Official Crew
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127550
Partially Open
Visited: 10/14/2023

The season's first real snowstorm has moved through the Colorado High Country, and the daytime temps are not low enough to melt the storms anymore. This trail should be considered only partially open at it's lower altitudes and may be dangerous if you encounter snow, if not impassable, until Spring.
Open
Visited: 09/30/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Rubicon 4xe. Easy trail with few fun obstacles here and there. Some amazing views but mostly wooded and narrow in spots. Will be back next year to check out some of the camp spots.
Open
Visited: 09/17/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Trail was a lot of fun and it was cool to see the old mine. Was done with a 2 inch lift Nissan frontier pro-4x without any trouble. There are several places to camp that are nice and secluded and you can hear the stream almost the entire trip.
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Official Crew
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127550
Open
Visited: 07/16/2023

Trail is reported passable all the way through!
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7600
Open
Visited: 07/09/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Nice little trail. Runs next to the creek. Lots of camping spots. The trail is has a couple rocky spots and a couple washouts to add a little challenge. The trail is fully open all the way to the end. The Columbines are in full bloom. This trail is Subaru friendly.
Trail Review: Bard Creek - Roger P.
Trail Review: Bard Creek - Roger P.
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