Near Dark Canyon Trail Point to Point
First viewpoint on the trail looking north.
Near Dark Canyon Trail Point to Point
Heading east on trail.
Near Dark Canyon Trail Point to Point
Don't miss this panoramic viewpoint right off the trail. It is an epic place to view the changing aspens in the fall.
Near Dark Canyon Trail Point to Point
Marcellina
Near Dark Canyon Trail Point to Point
Bridge near the Erickson Spring trailhead.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Dark Canyon Trail Point to Point

4.4 (13 Ratings)
Great point to point trip through the West Elk Wilderness
14
mi
Distance
1,836
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Fall ColorsGeologically SignificantRiver/CreekSpringViewsWildlife
Access Issues
Wilderness, closed to mountain bikes. Popular hunting area so be sure to wear bright colors in the Fall.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
13.99mi
Distance
1,836ft
Elevation Gain
3,930ft
Elevation Loss
35%
Max Grade
9,379ft
High Point
6,778ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This trail starts at the Horse Ranch Park trailhead on the north side of Kebler Pass. From here start along the Dark Canyon Trail #830. After about 8 miles, there will be a junction to the Ruby Anthracite Trail. Stay right on the Dark Canyon Trail and head down the Devils Staircase, which is a long series of switchbacks down to Middle Anthracite Creek. At about 10 miles total there will be another split to the right which would take you to Marble via the West Anthracite Trail stay LEFT here and continue through the spectacular Dark Canyon. This trail is well signed, but a GPS or the Mobile App would be good to have in case you end up off trail in some overgrown segments. This trail is best taken as a point to point with a car at the Erickson Springs trailhead. While Kebler Pass does get a fair amount of traffic, hitchhiking can be difficult.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
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Contributors
Scott Krankkala