Devil's Head Lookout Trail to Fire Tower

NOTE: As of November 2019, the stairs are closed for the year due to safety hazards. The trail is opened but the tower is still closed for maintenance. Please check with Pike National Forest before visiting. Devil's Head Lookout Trail takes you to a distinct granite rock outcropping in the front range west of Castle Rock. The outcropping is clearly visible from Castle Rock to Woodland Park. The outcropping is also home to the only fire lookout in Colorado that is staffed by the National Forest Service. This grants it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. It should also have a spot on your hiking list. If you are in the front range it should be near the top. This hike does not offer you solitude or a particularly beautiful trail. It does offer you historical significance, views of the Rocky Mountains for 100 miles in all directions from the lookout tower, and a whole lot of fun! The hike to Devils Head is perhaps the best in the area to take kids on and makes an easy day or weekend trip from Denver. The majority of this hike is shaded by mixed Aspen and Pine forest. There are plenty of shaded benches where you can take a break to cool off, and catch your breath. A sign even marks the halfway point for you. The trail gains 950ft in elevation over 1.4 miles, and ends with a climb up 143 stairs. A person in average shape should be able to complete this hike.