Fossil Ridge

Trail Overview

Fossil Ridge is an epic single-track trail near the towns of Crested Butte and Gunnison, Colorado, that is full of rock problems, creek crossings, and scenic meadows, and even has a spur trail to Boulder Lake. Going west to east, it starts out really flowy through aspen trees on a smooth and narrow dirt trail. Then it starts getting rockier and the rocks don't stop for the rest of the trail. You'll come up to several big rock problems, requiring getting up several embedded boulders with roots. A lot of the trail is just unrelenting, nonstop boulders, but it's a fun challenge to get through all of it. It opens up to a couple of meadows and mellows out for a few small sections at a time for relief from the rocks. The trail goes right next to a creek for part of it, with big puddles in summer. There are lots of downed logs all throughout the trail, and while most are cut, there's always potential for new downfall. The first half of this 12.5-mile trail gains 2,600 feet with several very technical climbs to get to the top of the mountain. The view from the ridgeline is fantastic, and there's a 0.2-mile spur trail you can take to Boulder Lake. It requires a couple of rocky switchbacks, but it takes you right up next to the lake, which is a great spot to stop for a break. The second half of the trail goes steadily downhill, dropping 2,500 feet in elevation, and this half is a bit easier.

Photos of Fossil Ridge

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Difficulty

This is a long trail with lots of rock problems continuously throughout the trail, including switchbacks and rock ledges.

Technical Rating