Forest Hollow and Boy Scout Loop
Forest Hollow and Boy Scout Loop
4.7
(1361)
12,637
runners
02:35
18.5km
670m
Running
Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Forest Hollow and Boy Scout Loop, a difficult route spanning 11.5 miles (18.5 km). You'll gain a significant 2196 feet (669 metres) of elevation, typically taking around 2 hours and 34 minutes to complete. The trail begins by winding through dense pine…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
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Waypoints
Start point
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51 m
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Tip by
1.86 km
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Tip by
3.72 km
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Tip by
9.24 km
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Tip by
18.5 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
17.5 km
982 m
Surfaces
10.8 km
6.76 km
982 m
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Sunday 24 May
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail is easily accessed from Glenwood Springs. Parking is generally available near the base of the ascent, often involving roads like Red Canyon Road and County Road 120 to reach the initial climb towards the Forest Hollow trailhead.
The provided information does not specify dog restrictions for this particular loop. It's always best to check local regulations or signage at the trailhead regarding pets and leash requirements before heading out.
While the specific best time isn't detailed, the trail offers lush greenery and wildflowers, suggesting spring and summer could be very scenic. Given the potential for snow and ice in Colorado mountains, late spring through early fall is generally ideal for jogging.
The available information does not indicate any specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Forest Hollow and Boy Scout Loop.
This loop is considered difficult for jogging due to its length (18.5 km) and significant elevation changes (669m up/down). The initial ascent is a long, moderate grind. The Forest Hollow Trail section is smoother but traverses a steep hillside. The Boy Scout Trail descent is particularly challenging, featuring steep, fast, and technical sections with switchbacks, sandy patches, and loose terrain, requiring careful footing.
Based on the tour data, jogging this 18.5 km loop with 669 meters of elevation gain typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes (9294 seconds).
The terrain is diverse. You'll encounter moderate climbs on roads, followed by singletrack trails. The Forest Hollow Trail is generally smooth and narrow, winding through pine forests. In contrast, the Boy Scout Trail features steep, fast, and technical downhill sections with many switchbacks, sandy areas, and occasional rocky patches.
Joggers can expect spectacular and varied views. The Forest Hollow Trail offers glimpses of the Colorado River and areas rich with wildflowers. From the rim of Glenwood Canyon, you'll get panoramic views of downtown Glenwood Springs, the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers, the Flattops, and even Mount Sopris in the distance.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Forest Hollow (67% of route covered), Boy Scout (42%), Lookout Mountain (9%), and Lookout Mount Trail (7%).
Given the description of the Boy Scout Trail as a "rip-roaring downhill" with steep, technical sections, many joggers might prefer to descend this part. This implies a counter-clockwise direction, tackling the sustained climb to Forest Hollow first, and then enjoying the more challenging descent of the Boy Scout Trail.
The loop offers a dramatic contrast in scenery. You'll experience lush pine forests and wildflowers on the Forest Hollow Trail, along with glimpses of the Colorado River. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views from the rim of Glenwood Canyon, overlooking Glenwood Springs, two rivers, and distant mountains like Mount Sopris.