California Gulch

Total Miles
4.9

Elevation

3,935.24 ft

Duration

1 Hours

Technical Rating

3

Easy

Best Time

Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

This trail starts at the Animus Forks Ghost Town, and the start of the famous Alpine Loops. This is a remote and beautiful drive that passes by many old mining buildings. Make time to stop for the outstanding vistas. This trail is not passable in the winter.

Photos of California Gulch

California Gulch
California Gulch

Difficulty

Easy. Road is in good condition most of the summer. Heavy snow on east side of California Pass is usually plowed by late June. Low range recommended for upper portion of trail.

History

Animas Forks was active between 1875 and the early 1920s. In 1885, its summer population reached a high of 450 people. The Silverton Northern Railroad reached the town in 1904 when the giant Gold Prince Mill was built. The mill lasted only six years before it was closed.

Technical Rating

3

Status Reports

Andy Natalie
Jun 30, 2024
2018 Jeep Wrangler
Open
Normal
This in one of the most beautiful locations I’ve ever seen.
Chad Mckee
Jun 29, 2024
4x4
Open
Normal
Muddy/Wet
Justin Hodges
Jun 27, 2024
4x4
Open
Muddy/Wet
Niels S
Jun 18, 2024
4x4
Open
Snow/Ice
Muddy/Wet
still some snow on the trail, but passable.

Access Description

From northeast end of Silverton, bear right on C.R. 2. Follow signs to Alpine Loop. After 11.4 miles, reach fork at Waypoint 01.

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