Near Old Car Loop
Closeup of the namesake old car.
Near Old Car Loop
The Infamous Old Car
Near Old Car Loop
Trail
Near Old Car Loop
Trail sign

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Driving Directions
Classic Hike Route

Old Car Loop

4.0 (2 Ratings)
A quick hike next to campus and town with views of the Gunnison city area.
2
mi
Distance
265
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
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Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.95mi
Distance
265ft
Elevation Gain
265ft
Elevation Loss
15%
Max Grade
8,031ft
High Point
7,779ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
The parking lot for this hike is right next to the football stadium at Western Colorado University campus. There's a big signboard at the beginning that shows an abundance of trail options in this area. However, if you just want to hike to Old Car, it's just shy of 2 miles round trip and 250 feet of elevation gain. The elevation feels very mild on this route and there are a few different trail options to get to Old Car. You can take the Ridgeline or the Contour trail, and both trails continue further on past Old Car if you're wanting something longer. This trail offers no shade whatsoever so be mindful of the time you hike. You'll be on a dirt or rock path in a sea of sagebrush. These trails offer great views all around with views overlooking the city of Gunnison, Hartman rocks, W mountain, and Signal Peak. This is also a frisbee golf area, if that suits your fancy. Once you get to the Old Car, you can enjoy the views, some water, and decide if you want to keep hiking or head back down to your car.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Eric Thorson