Trail Overview
This trail begins at the summit of Crooked Creek Pass and descends through a beautiful canyon toward the Sylvan Lake State Park area. It is a particularly unique route because much of the trail passes through areas affected by the 2022 Sylvan Lake Fire, creating dramatic scenery and ever-changing landscapes. Due to the burn scar, visitors should be aware that soils and slopes in some areas may be less stable than in surrounding forests. Along the way, you’ll encounter a little bit of everything, including scenic shelf roads that are not overly narrow, multiple water crossings, and several deep mud holes. Even in dry conditions, there are a few sections where 4WD may be beneficial, while wet conditions can significantly increase the difficulty. The route offers outstanding scenery and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with moose, elk, deer, and even black bears commonly seen in the area. Keep an eye out for the local yellow-bellied marmots—often called “whistle pigs”—which are known for their distinctive whistles and their habit of sunning themselves along the roadway.
Difficulty
Although this trail is not particularly difficult, it does feature several deep mud holes and shallow water crossings, at least during the time of mapping. While engaging 4WD and airing down your tires may be beneficial, one of the most important pieces of equipment to bring is a handsaw or chainsaw, as deadfall is common during the periods when the route is open to vehicles. Aside from these occasional obstacles, the trail is generally straightforward in dry conditions and offers a highly scenic drive through some beautiful backcountry terrain.
History
The Sylvan Fire ignited on May 18, 2022, near Sylvan Lake State Park in Eagle County, Colorado, and quickly spread through steep, heavily forested terrain driven by dry conditions and gusty winds. The wildfire ultimately burned approximately 3,800 acres, prompting evacuations and temporary closures of Sylvan Lake State Park and surrounding communities. Hundreds of firefighters, aircraft, and support personnel worked to contain the blaze, and after several weeks of intensive firefighting efforts, the fire was declared fully contained in June 2022. Although no homes were lost, the fire significantly altered the surrounding landscape, leaving behind large areas of burned forest that continue to shape the scenery and ecology of the region today. Visitors traveling through the area can still see evidence of the fire’s impact, as well as the early stages of forest regeneration and recovery.
