The Hessie Trailhead is a busy access point to US Forest Service lands and popular trails. Boulder County provides access to the trailhead, but does not manage the trails.
Hessie Trailhead
Hessie Trailhead
The Hessie Trailhead is operated by the US Forest Service (USFS) and is a popular access point to USFS lands. The following areas can be accessed from the shuttle drop-off point:
- Indian Peaks Wilderness
- Devils Thumb: 11.6 miles (round trip)
- Lost Lake: 4.2 miles (round trip)
- King Lake: 12 miles (round trip)
- Woodland Lake: 9.6 miles (round trip)
- Diamond Lake: 13 miles (round trip)
Visit USFS Hessie Trailhead or call 970-295-6600 for more information about recreating at these locations.
Free Shuttle Service
The Hessie Shuttle has ended for the season. The free service ran from May 23 through Oct. 12.
Visitation Numbers
Alternative Destinations
The Hessie Trailhead is a very popular destination and extremely congested on weekends. Consider these other destinations in the area:
Brainard Lake Recreation Area
- USFS
- Reservation and day use fee required
- Hiking, biking, and equestrian use
- Dogs allowed
- RV, bus, and trailer parking
Betasso Preserve
- Boulder County
- Hiking, biking, and equestrian use (Bikes prohibited Wednesdays & Saturdays)
- Dogs allowed
Caribou Ranch
- Boulder County
- Hiking only
- Closed April 30 – June 30
East Portal Trailhead (Moffat Tunnel)
- USFS
- Access to the South Boulder Creek Trail
- Hiking, biking, and equestrian use
- Dogs allowed
Mud Lake
- Boulder County
- Hiking, biking, and equestrian use
- Dogs allowed on leash
Sourdough Trail Trailhead
- USFS
- Hiking, biking, and equestrian use
- Dogs allowed
Contact Us
Shuttle Questions
transit@bouldercounty.gov
All Other Questions
posinfo@bouldercounty.gov
303-678-6200
Monday-Friday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.