Near Dry Fork Trail
Rougher trail surface on the Dry Creek Trail.
Near Dry Fork Trail
Late August sunflowers near the trailhead.
Near Dry Fork Trail
Typical trail surface on the Dry Fork Trail.
Near Dry Fork Trail
Ponderosa trees on the Dry Fork Trail.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Dry Fork Trail

3.5 (6 Ratings)
A moderate climb to the Colorado Trail.
4.1
mi
Distance
1,220
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Access Issues
The couple miles of dirt road to reach the trailhead are well maintained and OK with a 2WD car. Closed December 1 to April 15. Anyone over 16 years old must possess a valid Colorado hunting or fishing license or have a State Wildlife Area Pass. (passes can be purchased here: https://cpw.state.co.us/buyapply/Pages/AnnualPassInfo.aspx

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
4.05mi
Distance
1,220ft
Elevation Gain
12ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
8,597ft
High Point
7,377ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The Dry Fork trail is accessed from the parking lot on County Road 208. From Hwy 160 West turn right on Lightner Creek Rd. then right on Country Road 208. Stay right at the fork (it is 2.7 mi from Lightner Creek Rd. to the parking lot). The entrance to the parking lot is marked with a sign for Hofhein's Connection. The Dry Fork trail offers a moderate grade, but not much rest and it does have considerable elevation gain. The trail climbs through scrub oak and pine, which are beautiful, but there isn't much in the way of views. The trail is generally smooth singletrack, with some small rocky sections thrown in for good measure. After just under a mile of gentle climbing, you'll come to the junction with Hofhein's Connection. Dry Fork Trail is clearly marked. Ends at the Colorado Trail.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
Missy Thompson