Jacks & Notch Loop

About

The Jacks & Notch Loop is a 1.8-mile moderate hiking trail located in Gunnison, Colorado, within the Hartman Rocks recreation area. The route begins at the main parking lot near pit toilets and follows Jack's Trail up Kill Hill via meandering switchbacks. After passing through a gate, the trail merges with the road at the upper trailhead before turning south along well-worn paths behind distinctive rock formations. At the intersection with The Notch Trail, hikers descend away from the rocks and return to the base area via Swoosh or other connected trails. The loop offers approximately 396 feet of elevation gain and typically takes one hour to complete. The trail is open year-round, though hikers should observe well-marked seasonal closures in the parking area. Facilities include parking and restrooms at the trailhead. The terrain is multi-use, shared with mountain bikers and dirt bikers, particularly on the downhill Notch section. Vegetation includes sage, paintbrush, and lupine, with wildlife sightings of coyotes, mountain lions, deer, raptors, and songbirds. There is no shade on the ascent, so hikers should plan accordingly for sun exposure.