The Tanglewood Trail begins in the southeast corner of the Mt. Evans Wilderness Area and heads in a north/northwesterly direction to a saddle east of Rosalie Peak. From the saddle the trail continues in a northerly direction to Roosevelt Lakes, Beartrack Lakes and points beyond in the Arapaho National Forest. Immediately east of the saddle (towards Rosedale Peak) are a series of pointed rock outcroppings called "Pegmatite Points". The elevation gain to the saddle is 2,620'. From the saddle you will see magnificent views of 2 separate drainages. Upper portions of the trail are above tree line. The parking area at the trailhead has room for unloading horses. Overnight camping is not permitted at the trailhead. This location is also the trailhead for the southeast (lower) terminus of the Rosalie Trail.This narrative describes the trail as far as Roosevelt Lakes. About 100' west of the parking area you will reach the trailheads for the Tanglewood and Rosalie Trails. The Tanglewood Trail bears right and follows along Tanglewood Creek in a north/northwesterly direction. After about 25-30 minutes of hiking you will reach an unmarked fork. An old access road bears left, while the trail continues right (straight ahead) along Tanglewood Creek. After 3 miles the trail crosses Tanglewood Creek for the last time and then begins to ascend. As you reach tree line you will see 2 of the Pegmatite Points ahead on the ridge. After leaving the trees the trail is quite steep and strenuous. A post cairn at the saddle marks the boundary between Pike and Arapaho National Forests. Rosalie Peak will be visible immediately to the west and the Pegmatite Points will be visible along the ridge in an easterly direction. From the saddle the trail begins to descend gradually across open tundra to Roosevelt Lakes (elevation 11,742), a distance of .4 miles. From the lakes the trail continues to the Beartrack Lakes and points beyond in the Arapaho National Forest.
Directions from Bailey: Drive 2.5 miles east from Bailey on Highway 285 to the top of Crow Hill. Turn left (north) on to Park County Road 43 and drive in a north/northwesterly direction for 6.8 miles to a "Y" in the road. Bear left on County Road 43 and drive 2.1 miles to the parking area at the trailhead.
Directions from Denver: If driving west from Denver on Highway 285 the turnoff on to Park County 43 is 10.8 miles west of the traffic light in Conifer. The trailhead parking area is designated as "Deer Creek Trailhead" on the signs along the road.
Seasonal Information:
Normally Open:
Early Summer through Late Fall .
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