Herman Gulch Trailhead

Right off Interstate 70, Herman Gulch Trailhead functions as a dispersed camping area within Arapaho National Forest, though its primary purpose serves hikers accessing the gulch trail. The location sits directly adjacent to the highway, creating constant traffic noise that carries throughout the night. Three portable toilets provide basic facilities at this gravel and asphalt parking area.

The site accommodates RVs and offers easy drive-in access for overnight parking, making it functional for travelers needing a quick rest stop. During highway closures or accidents, the large parking area can hold numerous vehicles, as demonstrated when over 150 cars gathered here during one I-70 shutdown. For more remote options, campers can explore campgrounds near Silver Plume for quieter alternatives away from highway noise.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsHerman Gulch Trailhead is located in Colorado near Silver Plume

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

39.70220281 N
105.8556503 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 23 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 11 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 6/18/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 23 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 11 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 6/18/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • RV Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Pets

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Herman Gulch Trailhead needs a permit.

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Herman Gulch Trailhead

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

0%
67%
34%
0%
0%

3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

This trailhead parking lot serves as an adequate overnight stop for RVs and cars needing rest, though visitors commonly noted heavy I-70 traffic noise as the main drawback.

Reviewed Jul. 4, 2025

Parking lot right off the I70

Stopped here along with 150~ other cars when the I70 got shut down unfortunately due to an accident. Would’ve have slept here if conditions didn’t improve by nighttime. Could be alright to stop in a pinch if you can’t keep driving, or waiting out traffic.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Herman Gulch Trailhead by Joe M., July 4, 2025
Reviewed Jun. 2, 2025

Herman Gulch Trailhead parking lot

This is a trailhead parking lot, right off I-70. Heavy traffic noise. Not suitable for camping. Can accommodate RVs and overnight parking, so I reckon it's an adequate spot to rest up for a spell

Month of VisitJune

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park when visiting Herman Gulch Trail in Colorado?

Parking for Herman Gulch Trail is available directly at the Herman Gulch Trailhead lot, which is conveniently located just off Interstate 70. The lot can accommodate a large number of vehicles, including RVs and larger vehicles. During peak hiking seasons, the lot may fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Overnight parking is permitted for those planning extended hikes or backpacking trips in the area.

Is camping allowed at Herman Gulch Trailhead?

Camping is not allowed at Herman Gulch Trailhead. This is strictly a parking area for the trailhead located right off I-70, not a designated camping site. While overnight parking is permitted, actual camping (setting up tents, etc.) is not appropriate for this location. The area experiences heavy traffic noise from the nearby interstate, making it unsuitable for a proper camping experience. Visitors looking to camp should seek established campgrounds in the surrounding national forest areas instead.

What hiking opportunities are available at Herman Gulch?

Herman Gulch offers excellent hiking opportunities in the Colorado mountains. The main attraction is the Herman Gulch Trail, a popular route that winds through beautiful alpine terrain. Hikers can enjoy scenic mountain vistas, wildflower meadows (particularly spectacular in summer), and access to high-altitude lakes. The trail system connects to the Continental Divide Trail, providing options for both day hikes and more extended backpacking adventures. Difficulty levels vary, making it suitable for different hiking abilities, though visitors should be prepared for elevation gain and alpine conditions.