The Booger Red Hill BLM lands south of Florissant allow hikers to explore the southwest corner of Teller County. When snow levels are minimal I have been able to access and hike this area into early December, however this route can be difficult to follow when there are a few inches or more of snow cover.

From Evergreen Station, drive southwest on County Road 11 for about four miles to a T intersection. Bear left to continue south on CR 11 and after about another four miles at a sharp right turn, look fast for an obscure dirt road on the left/south side, BLM Road 5808. Turn onto BLM 5808, which cuts back sharp left and heads east through a gate.

The dirt road continues through an open grassy area then turns south then swings eastward again just before the trailhead parking area, about a mile from CR 11. The last hundred yards are better suited for a medium clearance vehicle, but there is also additional space for parking before this last stretch.

At the trailhead a map board displays the primitive trails of the area. Take a cel pic of this map for reference. From the parking area, be sure to pass through the gate on the right side and begin hiking through an open area with a sweeping view. After about a quarter mile reach a tall 4X4 post with arrow markers and make a note of this spot as the loop will return here. Cut left at the post to follow the east side of the loop.

The primitive trail/old road follows relatively flat terrain and after about another .75 mile the route veers to the right and drops downhill. After about another 150 yards look for a social trail off to the left that leads to fantastic views. This spur trail follows the top of a ridge then fizzles out after about a quarter mile when it reaches the end of the ridge. Swing left to the edge for a great view to the south and east of the canyons and hillsides of Fourmile and High Creeks. Continue following the ridge around to the right for an additional panoramic view to the west.

Retrace the spur back to the main trail and cut left into conifer forest. The trail can be difficult to follow here but just continue west and downward into a valley. After about another few hundred yards at the bottom of the valley intersect another more well-defined trail and bear left. Hike southward through a grassy area with some trail marker sticks. Angle right and climb up another ridge and after about a quarter mile reach a 4X4 post with a marker for trail T5808B. Also make a note of this spot as the route will return here. Turn left and follow the primitive trail south and west over the top of the ridge to elevated views of the High Creek Valley and hills beyond.

Switchback down into the valley and after about another half mile descend to the High Creek corridor lined with mature Cottonwoods. These large trees harbor a variety of breeding songbirds from late spring through early fall. Turn left and follow the trail along the creek for about a quarter mile to a crossing, the turnaround point for this route.

Retrace the route for about .75 mile back to the 4X4 post trail marker for T5808B, then bear left along the top of the ridge, following the west side of the loop on a different path back to the trailhead. The old road/trail travels north through a wide grassy area and after about another .75 mile reaches the tall 4X4 post near the parking area, then continue north for about another quarter mile back to the trailhead.

Joe LaFleur is a hiking enthusiast that hits the trails weekly. He has successfully summited over 150 unique 13ers and 14ers in Colorado. Contact Joe with questions or feedback at joe@betterbirdwatching.com. Hiking is great exercise but can be hazardous. Always be sure to plan well, check the weather, bring a printed map, tell someone where and when you are going and contact them when you return safely.