Near Rich Creek Trail #616
Campsite at 39° 1'34" N 106°9'24" W.
Near Rich Creek Trail #616
Trail sign for the turnoff of #617 continuing through the meadow.
Near Rich Creek Trail #616
A beautiful day makes our trek along Rich Creek all the better.

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Hike Trail

Rich Creek Trail #616

4.0 (2 Ratings)
A steady, gradual climb through forest and meadows.
6.5
mi
Distance
1,629
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsLess CrowdedRiver/CreekViewsWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
Almost all of the rxh is within the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness so please be mindful of wilderness restrictions posted on the parking lot sign.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
6.48mi
Distance
1,629ft
Elevation Gain
411ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
11,584ft
High Point
9,953ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Parking is somewhat limited directly at the trailhead, but many people just park alongside the road if the little parking lot fills up and it's not a problem. There is a wilderness map and registration list at the parking lot before you start, but really the trail is very well-defined and easy to follow. The trail consists mostly of dirt with the occasional root and rock. Water can be found nearby for at least 75% of the trail, so you definitely shouldn't have to worry too much about finding a solid water source. You'll find that the elevation gain is very steady for the most part. There a few places where it is steeper than others, like any trail, but overall there aren't a ton of exceptionally flat areas. Once you get into the meadows (probably about half of the hike), you'll have nice views of the nearby ridges and peaks. You may see a few other parties on the trail, but Buffalo Peaks Wilderness tends to be less popular than the nearby Collegiate Peaks so it can be very peaceful and secluded.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
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Contributors
Joshua Wells