Divide, CO
Distance from Denver: 119 miles
GPS coordinates for dispersed camping: Link to my google maps list here - Drive past Phantom Creek Trailhead and you will see a large number of sites on both the left and right side of the road!
Area Amenities: Few - Venture Foods market is down the road for a quick grocery stop. You can also pop into Woodland Park if you’re looking for larger stores and some tourist attractions!
Area Activities: Many! The town of Divide is quite small - you can visit the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Sanctuary, Florissant Fossil Beds, Teller County Animal shelter (this is where we got Cpt. Waffles), Cripple Creek, Hike/Bike/Dirtbike the trails, head to Eleven Mile Reservoir for the day, visit Woodland Park, etc.
Cost: Free! There is free camping on BLM land
Big Camper Friendly? Yes - can easily find spots that will accommodate a 40-foot + trailer with somewhat low clearance. There are some dips in the road but they’re no problem for most campers.
Ease of finding a spot? We arrived later in the day on Saturday and there were plenty of empty spaces.
Liz Rating: 4/5. Beautiful area, you can get a site with a view of Pikes Peak. Don’t let your kids or pets near the main FS road because UTVs will fly down the road.
Cell service?: No Verizon service at the campsite the last time I was here.
Nestled within the captivating embrace of Colorado's Rocky Mountains, Divide serves as a gateway to a world of outdoor exploration and historical intrigue. For those seeking an immersive experience amidst nature's splendor, camping near Trail 717 and Phantom Creek Trailhead in Divide promises an unforgettable journey filled with adventure and discovery. In this blog post, we'll unravel the charm of Divide, Colorado, explore the iconic trails of Trail 717 and Phantom Creek Trailhead, and uncover the myriad of activities awaiting adventurers in the surrounding areas of Colorado Springs, Cripple Creek, Manitou Springs, and Woodland Park.
Section 1: Discovering Divide, Colorado
Set against the backdrop of towering peaks and lush forests, Divide, Colorado, boasts a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty. Originally established as a vital railroad hub in the late 1800s, Divide retains its historic charm while offering modern amenities and access to some of Colorado's most iconic outdoor attractions.
Section 2: Exploring Trail 717 and Phantom Creek Trailhead
Trail 717, also known as the Horsethief Falls Trail, and Phantom Creek Trailhead epitomize the rugged allure of Divide's wilderness. As you hike or dirt bike along these historic trails, you'll traverse rugged terrain, pass by crystal-clear streams, and encounter remnants of the area's mining past, providing a fascinating blend of nature and history.
Section 3: Camping Near Trail 717 and Phantom Creek Trailhead
Camping near Trail 717 and Phantom Creek Trailhead offers an immersive experience in Divide's natural beauty and rich history. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, the campgrounds in the area provide convenient access to the trails and other nearby attractions. Wake up to the crisp mountain air, relish in the serene beauty of your surroundings, and embark on a day of exploration and adventure.
Section 4: Thrilling Outdoor Activities in the Surrounding Area
Beyond hiking and dirt biking, the surrounding areas of Divide offer a wealth of activities to suit every adventurer's taste. Explore the historic charm of Cripple Creek, try your luck at one of its many casinos, or embark on a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside. Visit Manitou Springs for its eclectic shops, art galleries, and natural mineral springs, or venture to Woodland Park for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the nearby Pike National Forest.
Colorado Springs: Just a short drive from Divide, Colorado Springs offers an array of outdoor pursuits. Embark on a hike through the stunning Garden of the Gods, where towering sandstone formations create a mesmerizing landscape. For a bird's-eye view of the city, hike or drive to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's iconic fourteeners. Alternatively, explore the picturesque trails of North Cheyenne Cañon Park or paddleboard across the serene waters of Prospect Lake.
Cripple Creek: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Cripple Creek, a historic mining town nestled in the Rocky Mountains. Take a guided tour of the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine or descend into the depths of the Victor Gold Mine to learn about the region's mining heritage. Afterward, try your luck at one of the town's lively casinos or enjoy a leisurely stroll through its charming streets lined with Victorian-era buildings.
Manitou Springs: Known for its vibrant culture and natural beauty, Manitou Springs offers a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. Embark on a scenic hike along the Manitou Incline, a challenging trail that ascends over 2,000 feet in elevation, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, explore the enchanting trails of Red Rock Canyon Open Space or soak in the healing waters of Manitou's natural mineral springs.
Woodland Park: Located just a short drive from Divide, Woodland Park serves as a gateway to the stunning Pike National Forest. Spend your days exploring the forest's extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails, or cast a line in one of its pristine mountain streams teeming with trout. For a more leisurely adventure, enjoy a scenic drive along the Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway, which winds through historic mining towns and picturesque landscapes.
Conclusion:
Camping in Divide, Colorado, near Trail 717 and Phantom Creek Trailhead, invites you to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery amidst nature's grandeur. Whether you're tracing the footsteps of miners from centuries past or soaking in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, Divide promises an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Pack your camping gear, fuel your sense of adventure, and discover the magic of Divide, Colorado, where history, nature, and adventure converge in perfect harmony.
