There’s a view of Glenwood Springs that’s hard to beat, and it’s in reach to locals and visitors alike. A trail leads to a series of expansive overlooks, marked by lush greenery, unexpected prayer flags, and an air of Old West mystery. Doc Holliday’s Grave is a hike worth doing—an experience that captures the essence of the historic mountain town.
Who is Doc Holliday?
Often considered Glenwood Springs‘ most famous outlaw, Doc Holliday was a dentist-turned-gunslinger and gambler, best known for his role in the law-breaking events surrounding the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.
Holliday had an infamous reputation as a sharp-shooter and has been depicted in movies and books throughout popular culture, played by various actors including Kirk Douglas, Adam West, Val Kilmer, and Dennis Quaid, among others. He is one of the most recognizable figures in tales of the American Old West, and is typically remembered via his relationship to fellow outlaw Wyatt Earp.
Holliday contracted tuberculosis and made his way to Glenwood Springs in 1887, hoping that the geothermal hot springs waters would heal him. He died shortly after, however; on his deathbed, Holliday asked a nurse for a shot of whiskey. After being denied, his last words were, “This is funny.”
A grave and memorial site is dedicated to Holliday in Linwood Cemetery, overlooking the city of Glenwood Springs.
The Hike
The trailhead that leads to Doc Holliday’s Grave, also known as Pioneer Cemetery Trail, is a quick uphill jaunt with sweeping views of Glenwood Springs. Best in the summer and fall seasons, this hike takes visitors up the mountainside on a wide dirt path.
Along the way, there are benches and plenty of scenic spots to pause, catch your breath (it’s a steady incline throughout), and take photos of the surrounding beauty. There is a tree on the trail that’s covered in colorful ribbons, known as “Annie’s Wishing Tree.”
At the top, hikers are able to explore the cemetery and seek out historic graves, such as Kid Curry and Doc Holliday, of course. There are informational signs sprinkled throughout, revealing local history and lore. Paying respect to the infamous gunslinger is a definite draw to the hike, and adds to the overall experience.
Hike Pros:
- Quick; have done it on my lunch break before
- A good workout with a nice incline
- Scenic views
- Not super busy
- Feel safe enough to do by myself
- Lots of signage, benches, and historical information
- Visitor friendly—would take any out of town guests
Hike Cons:
- Can get a little busy during peak seasons
- Have to rely on street parking at the trailhead
- Feels a little weird taking photos at a cemetery
My Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Trail information
Length: 0.7 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Usage: Moderate
Hiking notes: Beware of mud in the spring season and heed the signs warning not to throw anything off the side of the trail.
As always, enjoy the sunshine from up here.
Okay I’m really interested in Western things so I’d LOVE to see his grave (as weird as that sounds). This sounds / looks like an amazing hike – beautiful scenery too!
Not weird at all! There is HUGE interest in western-themed travel around here, especially with international guests. It’d be neat if you got to do something similar! Thanks for reading 🙂
Those views are absolutely breathtaking, what a stunning place to visit. I love the look of that beribboned tree too, are you allowed to add your own? And kudos for completing the hike in your lunch break, that’s impressive! Great post, thank you for sharing 🙂 Lisa
I’m so fortunate to have these incredible views so close! And I believe you are allowed to add ribbons—I’m sure that some visitors do. 🙂 Thank you so much for reading and for your kind words, Lisa!
Oh wow, the views on this hike look incredible! I am definitely going to have to make a point of visiting here if we’re ever in the area!
Love the views! I hope you’re able to visit sometime. Thanks for reading!
Those views are so pretty! 😊 it sounds like you has a great time. A hike in your lunch break blimey!! Thank you for sharing your experience!! Xxx
They are great! And trust me, that’s not a daily thing, but some people in my area are realllly go-getters when it comes to fitness and being outside. It usually takes the promise of ice cream afterward to get me on a hike, lol! But thank you very much for reading and commenting. 🙂 xx
I think that would be a great atmosphere, the people with motivation like that. Haha! That is a good reward! Xx
Sounds like a really nice little hike ! Where abouts is this?
It was great! It’s located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, in the US. 🙂
Wow the views are incredible!! Amazing photos xxx
I’m drinking them in for sure! Thank you so much for reading. xx
Those hills look so perfect for hiking!! Great photos and blog!
Definitely a great trail and a pretty good workout! Thanks for reading! 🙂
This looks so interesting! I love walking and learning the history of different places. The views are beautiful! Thank you for sharing. 🙂
It’s really great for the historic point of view, as much for the scenary. Thank you for reading! 🙂
Very interesting! I would like to hike up there!!
I loved Val Kilmers Doc Holliday, what an interesting place! I must visit, plus all this info is perfect. Than ks so much!!