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 Services (USFS) and is a popular access point to USFS lands including:
- Indian Peaks Wilderness
- Devils Thumb
- Lost Lake
- King Lake
- Woodland Lake
- Diamond Lake trails
Visit USFS Hessie Trailhead or call 970-295-6600 for more information about recreating at these locations.
Limited Parking Along Road
Limited, designated parking is available along the Fourth of July Road (CR 111). Parking is only allowed between signs. Violators will be fined $50 or towed.
Free Shuttle Service
The free shuttle service has ended. The shuttle ran Memorial Day weekend through Oct. 9.
Feedback Requested
Have you visited the Hessie or 4th of July area recently? Boulder County would like your feedback on potential strategies to improve the visitor experience in 2023. Please take a short survey to aid our work.
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
Email
All Other Questions
Email
303-678-6200
Mon-Fri 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.