Devil’s Head rises 9,748 feet above sea level in the Pike National Forest of Colorado, offering one of the state’s last functioning fire lookout towers accessible to visitors. This granite outcrop stands as both a rewarding hiking destination and a rare chance to climb into an active Forest Service structure with panoramic views spanning five states on clear days.
Understanding how to reach the trailhead, what the hike demands, when to visit, and what makes the lookout tower special will help you plan a successful visit to this distinctive landmark.
What Is Devil’s Head and Why Should You Visit?
Devil’s Head is a granite summit topped by a historic fire lookout tower built in 1912 and reconstructed in 1951. The 143-step tower remains staffed seasonally by the U.S. Forest Service, and visitors can climb to the observation deck for sweeping views of the Front Range, Mount Evans, Pikes Peak, and the eastern plains when weather permits.
Getting to the Trailhead
The Devil’s Head Trailhead sits approximately 47 miles southwest of Denver and roughly 25 miles northwest of Castle Rock. From Sedalia, take Highway 67 south for about 10 miles, then turn west onto Rampart Range Road, a maintained gravel road suitable for most passenger vehicles in dry conditions.
Continue on Rampart Range Road for roughly nine miles until you reach the signed turnoff for Devil’s Head. The parking area accommodates about 20 vehicles and fills quickly on summer weekends, so plan to arrive before 9 a.m. or after 2 p.m. to improve your chances of finding a space.
Road Conditions and Seasonal Access
Rampart Range Road typically remains open from late May through October, though this varies by snowfall and plowing schedules. The road can become muddy, rutted, or impassable after heavy rain or snowmelt, and high-clearance vehicles perform better under these conditions.
Check current road status and closures with the South Platte Ranger District before you travel, especially in spring, fall, or after storms. Winter access requires snowshoes or cross-country skis, and the parking area is not plowed.
The Devil’s Head Trail
The trail to the summit measures 2.8 miles round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 940 feet. Most hikers complete the journey in 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on pace, fitness level, and time spent at the lookout tower.
The route begins as a moderate, well-maintained path through mixed conifer forest dominated by ponderosa pine and Douglas fir. Switchbacks appear in the final half-mile as the trail climbs more steeply over rocky terrain and exposed granite slabs.
Trail Difficulty and What to Expect
While the distance is manageable, the combination of altitude, uneven footing, and the final steep push makes this hike moderately strenuous rather than easy. The trail surface includes loose rocks, tree roots, and occasional scrambling over granite outcrops near the summit.
Once you reach the base of the lookout tower, you’ll climb 143 metal steps on staircases that wrap around the granite formation. The stairs are exposed, steep, and can feel challenging for those uncomfortable with heights or open-air structures.
Physical Considerations
The elevation at the trailhead starts above 8,800 feet, and the summit exceeds 9,700 feet. Visitors from lower elevations may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or mild altitude symptoms even on a short hike.
The tower stairs are not wheelchair accessible, and the trail itself includes obstacles that make it unsuitable for most mobility aids. Families with young children should assess whether kids can safely manage the stairs and exposed deck at the top.
At the Lookout Tower
The observation deck provides 360-degree views when visibility cooperates. On clear days, you can identify Pikes Peak to the south, Mount Evans and the Continental Divide to the west, Denver’s skyline to the northeast, and the flat expanse of the Great Plains stretching eastward.
During the fire season, typically late May through September, a Forest Service volunteer or staff member may be present and available to answer questions about fire detection, the tower’s history, and the surrounding landscape. Please respect their work and avoid lengthy visits if the deck is crowded or the lookout is actively monitoring conditions.
Tower Etiquette and Safety
The observation deck is small and can only accommodate a limited number of visitors comfortably. Keep visits brief when others are waiting, and supervise children closely on the stairs and deck.
High winds, thunderstorms, or low visibility can make the tower dangerous or unpleasant. Descend immediately if weather deteriorates, and never climb the tower during lightning activity or when ice covers the stairs.
Best Time to Visit Devil’s Head
The most reliable access window runs from June through September, when snow has cleared from the trail and Rampart Range Road remains consistently passable. July and August bring afternoon thunderstorms almost daily, so start early to reach the summit and return before storms develop around midday.
Late September and early October offer cooler temperatures, thinner crowds, and occasional aspen color at lower elevations, though frost and early snow become possible. Spring visits in May can be rewarding but depend heavily on snowmelt timing and road drying.
Avoiding Crowds
Weekends from June through August see the heaviest use, with the parking lot often full by mid-morning. Weekdays are noticeably quieter, and early starts on any day improve your chances of solitude on the trail and space at the tower.
If you arrive to a full parking area, do not park along Rampart Range Road or block access routes. Consider visiting nearby alternatives or returning at a different time rather than creating safety or access issues.
What to Bring
Prepare for changing mountain weather and limited facilities. Essential items include:
- At least one liter of water per person, as no water is available on the trail or at the trailhead
- Sun protection including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, since the tower and upper trail sections are exposed
- Layered clothing to accommodate temperature shifts, wind, and possible rain
- Sturdy footwear with good tread for rocky, uneven surfaces
- Snacks or a light lunch if you plan to spend time at the summit
- A basic first-aid kit and any personal medications
Trekking poles can help with stability on the descent, and a lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker is advisable even on sunny mornings. Leave the trailhead prepared for self-sufficiency, as cell service is unreliable and help may be distant.
Safety and Wilderness Responsibilities
Lightning poses a serious risk in Colorado’s mountains, especially on exposed summits and metal structures. Monitor weather forecasts before you leave, watch for developing clouds, and turn back if you hear thunder or see lightning, even if the storm seems far away.
Wildlife in the area includes black bears, mountain lions, elk, and deer. Store food securely, make noise while hiking, and keep children close. Do not approach, feed, or attempt to photograph wildlife at close range.
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash, food waste, and litter. The trailhead has no restroom facilities, so plan accordingly before you arrive or use the vault toilet at nearby Flat Rocks Campground if accessible.
Stay on established trails to prevent erosion, and avoid creating shortcuts or trampling vegetation. Respect fire restrictions, which are common in summer and may prohibit campfires, smoking, or even certain equipment.
Fees and Permits
No entrance fee or permit is required to hike Devil’s Head Trail as of the most recent information available. However, policies can change, and day-use fees or parking passes may be introduced.
Verify current requirements with the Pike National Forest or South Platte Ranger District before your visit. Some nearby recreation areas and campgrounds do charge fees, so confirm which regulations apply to your specific destination.
Nearby Attractions and Extensions
If you want to extend your visit or explore additional sites in the area, several options lie within a short drive. Flat Rocks Campground offers developed camping along Rampart Range Road and serves as a convenient base for hiking Devil’s Head and exploring other trails.
The Raspberry Mountain Trail and Zinn Memorial Trail provide quieter hiking alternatives nearby, and the Rampart Range Road itself connects to additional trailheads, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks worth investigating. The town of Sedalia offers basic services and dining, while Castle Rock and Colorado Springs provide more extensive amenities.
Planning Your Visit
A visit to Devil’s Head works well as a half-day trip from the Denver or Colorado Springs metro areas, or as part of a longer exploration of the Pike National Forest and Front Range. Budget about four hours total for driving from Denver, hiking, and spending time at the tower.
Combine your hike with a picnic at a nearby site, exploration of Rampart Range Road, or a visit to one of the small foothill towns for a full-day outing. Alternatively, use the area as a base for multi-day camping and hiking if you want to explore more trails and landscapes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many visitors underestimate the impact of altitude, especially if they’re arriving from sea level or moderate elevations. Pace yourself, drink water regularly, and recognize symptoms like dizziness, headache, or unusual fatigue as potential signs to slow down or turn back.
Starting too late in the day increases your risk of encountering afternoon thunderstorms or finding a full parking lot. Aim to begin your hike by 8 or 9 a.m. during summer months to stay ahead of weather and crowds.
Overestimating Road Conditions
Rampart Range Road’s condition varies significantly with weather and maintenance schedules. What appears passable in online photos or older reports may be rough, muddy, or washed out when you arrive.
Call ahead for current road status, and be prepared to turn back if conditions exceed your vehicle’s capability or your comfort level. Attempting a rough road unprepared can lead to damage, getting stuck, or needing costly assistance.
Responsible Photography and Social Media
The lookout tower and surrounding views are photogenic, and sharing your experience can inspire others. However, avoid posting misleading information about trail difficulty, road conditions, or access rules that might lead unprepared visitors into unsafe situations.
Respect the privacy and work of any Forest Service personnel present, and ask permission before photographing individuals. Tag locations accurately so others can find reliable information, and consider how your posts might influence visitation and impact on this popular site.
Final Preparations
Devil’s Head rewards visitors with memorable views, a touch of history, and a manageable challenge that suits a wide range of fitness levels. Success depends on timing your visit to match road and weather conditions, preparing for altitude and exposure, and respecting the working lookout tower and surrounding wilderness.
Before you go, confirm current road status, fire restrictions, and tower staffing with the South Platte Ranger District or Pike National Forest office. Verify trailhead directions, parking availability, and any new fees or regulations to avoid surprises and ensure a smooth, enjoyable visit to this distinctive Colorado landmark.
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