Bergen Peak via Elk Meadow Park

Dog-friendly hike near Evergreen · Elk Meadow Stagecoach Trailhead, 32281 Stagecoach Blvd, Evergreen

Illustration of an alpine lake trail in the Colorado mountains

Illustration of the region, not this trail.

Dogs on this trail

Jefferson County Open Space regulations require pets on a leash of ten feet or less and under physical control at all times; the park's former off-leash dog area is closed.

Source: Jefferson County Open Space · checked 2026-10-24. Rules change; confirm before you go.

Distance9.4 mi
Elevation gain2100 ft
Leash ruleLeash required
Water on trailNone — carry water
SeasonMay–Oct for the summit; the meadow loops are year-round and the north-side switchbacks hold snow into spring
ParkingRebuilt Stagecoach lot with expanded parking and EV chargers; still fills on summer weekends; Lewis Ridge lot on Hwy 74 is the alternative
FeeFree
RestroomsNew restroom at the Stagecoach Trailhead
Managed byJefferson County Open Space

Elk Meadow is the place in the Jeffco system most likely to show you a herd of elk, and the 4.7-mile (one way) climb to 9,708-foot Bergen Peak with 2,100 feet of gain is the biggest honest summit hike in the Evergreen area. The lower meadow loops are easy and popular; the Bergen Peak and Too Long trails switchback through fir and lodgepole to a rocky top with views to Mount Blue Sky. Leashes (10 feet or less) are required everywhere, and the old off-leash area on the east side has been closed for years. Elk in rut (September–October) are dangerous to dogs; give them the trail. Carry water, there is none.