Gold Belt Trail (Old Horsethief)

The Old Horsethief Trail (also occasionally known as the Gold Belt Trail) is an out-and-back hike just outside of Ouray that gains about 2,800 feet of elevation to a small summit that provides great views down to the town below and the Uncompahgre River Valley. Begin from the small, easy to miss trailhead right off Highway 550. Parking is limited here, but this trail is rarely busy so you shouldn't have issues. Right away the trail begins a steady climb uphill. The trail passes through a lot of private property, so please stay on route and be respectful of land boundaries. The Old Horsethief Trail continues a steady and at times steep climb through primarily forested terrain. There are a couple of junctions where the trail crosses a road, but these are obvious and well signed. There is also a short section known as "The Blowout" that traverses across a steep and crumbly talus slope, but is easily done thanks to the good trail. You'll eventually climb above treeline and reach a great viewpoint looking down to Ouray below. The top of the trail and a small summit is just beyond here. After reaching the top and the small summit you can continue off trail across the ridge to another small summit which is the official high point of Gold Hill. Likewise, the Bridge of Heaven Trail joins in here and can be done along the ridge in the opposite direction if you wish to extend the adventure. After enjoying the views, return the way you came to the trailhead.