Upper Spring Creek

Upper Spring Creek is a trail head off of Sheridan Lake Road below the dam at Sheridan Lake. It is a section of the 111 mile long Centennial Trail and also leads to the Flume Trail. Although very short, this is a favorite place of mine to go for a hike or trail run, especially on a hot summer day.


Starting almost at Sheridan Lake Road, this section of the Centennial Trail meanders slightly uphill following Spring Creek until the dam at Sheridan Lake just over a mile away. Once at the dam there are many options of where to go next. You can keep going on the Centennial Trail towards Dakota Point or take a short trail to the Flume Trail or just turn around and head back. On those hot, sunny days, it's always fun to do a little swimming and cliff jumping into the lake to cool off.

While on the trail, the scenery is amazing with the creek wandering through the valley and between the rock walls. The trail varies between a narrow single track and a wide, rocky path. Along the way there are three creek crossings which have recently been given bridges, but you can still walk through the water if you choose! Another great thing about this area is the fishing in the creek. The trout are abundant and waiting… In the summer months, beware of poison ivy and mosquitoes.

The Upper Spring Creek Trail Head is about two miles east of Highway 385 or nine miles west of Red Rocks Golf Course/Corner Pantry. Look for the trailhead sign on Sheridan Lake Road and follow the road about half a mile to the trail head parking lot.