Route:

There are different directions for different levels. Please run the appropriate distance for your speed. Maps are at (the distances aren't accurate, but are in my description and on the maps at the trail head):

Clockwise Route : All groups will start up the trail by the map, jog right across the footbridge, then left into the canyon. Stay straight on the Apex trail past the first junction, ~.7mi, to the next junction, 1.1mi, Sluice Box. This lower section is pretty rocky.

Slow runners should turn right here and climb the switchbacks. There are three options from the top: 1) Take the first right on Pick N' Sledge, total distance ~4.5mi; 2) Continue a short distance to the 2 nd right, Bonanza, total distance ~4.9mi; 3) Continue around on the Grubstake Loop, this adds considerable distance, ~5.5mi, and climbing. With all options, follow Pick N' Sledge down the hill to the Apex Trail, and go left to the finish.

Looking West - Heading down to the Apex Trail about 1.6 miles up.

Intermediate and faster runners should stay straight past Sluicebox for ~.3mi. Cross the bridge to the left into the Enchanted Forest .

Climb ~1.3mi to the top. Go right, and come back down the Apex trail.

Intermediate runners should continue down Apex to the finish, total distance ~5.9mi. Fast and advanced intermediate runners should go left at Sluicebox. Then, take any of the 3 options described above for total distances of 7.4, 7.8, or 8.4mi.

Figure 8 route : Start up the trail by the map, jog right across the footbridge, then left into the canyon. We'll split up at the first junction, ~3/4 mi up the canyon. Slow and fast runners should go right. Those in the middle can either go right or straight. Read on.

To the right, climb the Pick 'N Sledge trail for ~1mi. There are three options at the top. The faster intermediate runners should either take the first left, Pick 'N Sledge, or go another 1/2 mi to the second left, Bonanza. From either option, then go left down Sluicebox. The slow and fast runners should continue around on the Grubstake loop. This meets the Sluicebox. Continue down to the main Apex trail. Slow runners should go left and head back to the start.

Those going longer, should go right for 0.3mi to the Enchanted Forest . Go left and cross the bridge. Climb ~1.3mi to the top. Go right, and come back down the Apex trail.

Counter-Clockwise Route : This is the same as the Figure 8 route, except that we'll go up Apex and down the Enchanted Forest .

Jefferson County Park Information on Apex Park Updated May 2, 2007