Overview
Crossing the infamous and incredible Devils Causeway Photo by Jim Lierman, Summer, 2002 The Devils Causeway is a spot any hiker or climber will never forget. The crux of this hike is the Causeway itself, a narrow bridge of rock atop the towering Chinese Wall in the Flat Tops Wilderness. Narrowing to a width of three feet, this 100 foot rampart will test the resolve of most people, and thrill those with a love of heights.
The majority of the route featured here follows an easy trail and provides stunning views. This loop is one of the shortest hikes in the Flat Tops Wilderness, which starts and ends at the Stillwater Reservoir located southwest of Yampa. A full day is recommended to complete the loop. Be sure to read the essential gear suggestions under the Devils Causeway Loop Hike in the ROUTES section (upper left).
Second to the Weminuche Wilderness in southwest Colorado, The Flat Tops is a large sprawling wilderness of forests and lakes that surround a pristine snow shed of towering mesas, guarded by cliffs rising to over twelve thousand feet. A haven for wildlife, this expansive area is best explored on a multi-day backpack or horseback trip.
Getting ThereOn Interstate 70 west of Vail, take the Wolcott exit north on Highway 131 43 miles to the tiny town of Yampa. Turn left and go through town. If you blink, you’ll miss the turn leading south out of town on County Road 7. Follow County Road 7 for 7 miles, then another 9 miles on Forest Service Road 900 to the parking area on the north side of Stillwater Reservoir. FSR 900 is a graded dirt road that takes extra time in dry, dusty conditions or wet conditions, but is passable by all vehicles.
The Topozone Map available here roughly illustrates the loop route described on this page in the ROUTE SECTION.
Red TapeA parking use fee was in place during the summer of 2002. The fee was $5.00. Fees are charged to camp in the established campgrounds nearby.
Blanco Ranger District
Rifle Ranger District
USDA Forest Service
White River National Forest
900 Grand Ave.
P.O. Box 948
Glenwood Springs CO 81602
970-945-2521
When To ClimbSummer or fall is best. Spring or winter hikes in the area would be rewarding.
A CROSSING OF THE CAUSEWAY SHOULD NOT BE ATTEMPTED IN ANYTHING BUT ABSOLUTE DRY CONDITIONS ONLY.
Trails in the area lend themselves to great ski or snow shoe outings. Access to some mountains is easy and avalanche danger would be minimal. Be sure to discuss route specifics when contacting the district.
Remain on designated trails, marked with blue diamonds. Do not attempt to climb or traverse any steep slopes, which are typically found beneath the cliff ramparts in this area in winter conditions unless you are properly equipped, experienced and informed conerning current snow conditions.
CampingFee campgrounds are available along Forest Service Road 900.
The Bear Lake Campground is 6 miles up from the beginning of FSR 900. Horseshoe and Cold Spring Campgrounds are located below and at Stillwater Reservoir respectively. Tables, fireplaces, grills and facilities are available.
Camping is available in the Flat Tops Wilderness west of Stillwater Reservoir. Please observe wilderness protocols.
Mountain ConditionsMeeker Regional Forecast
GOES Western US Satellite ImageExternal Links Images
|
Flat Tops
