Trail Overview
This scenic trail begins at a trailhead with parking for up to 10 vehicles and requires you to open and close a gate. The narrow dirt route descends into dense aspen forest with 5–6-inch ruts and a shaded, private campsite at 0.2 miles that can accommodate two vehicles and includes a large fire ring. Another campsite about 50 yards before the trail closure offers an open view of the valley and surrounding forest. The trail ends at 0.8 miles, where a gate and sign mark the end of motorized access, with a hiking route continuing beyond.
Difficulty
This trail is rated Level 2 because it is short, relatively easy, and has only moderate ruts. The narrow trail requires caution when approaching other vehicles.
History
The Uncompahgre National Forest was established in 1905 and has a long history tied to mining, logging, ranching, and early settlement in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. The region was especially shaped by the late-1800s mining boom, with historic towns, mines, and roads still found throughout the forest today.