Trail Overview
Mineral Creek is a challenging 7-mile off-road trail near Ouray, Colorado, climbing from Highway 550 to the Alpine Loop. The route ascends over 3,200 feet to a maximum elevation of 12,068 feet. It begins with a rocky, technical obstacle and transitions into steep canyon terrain with narrow ledge roads that offer no room to pass oncoming vehicles. High-clearance, low-range 4x4 vehicles with skid plates can successfully navigate the trail with careful tire placement.
Scenic highlights along the trail include waterfalls near Poughkeepsie Gulch and the historic remnants of Mineral Point, an 1870s mining town. Early morning or weekday travel is highly recommended to avoid heavy weekend traffic and the challenges of passing on narrow shelf roads.
Difficulty
Difficult. Starts out quickly with difficult spot that has optional easier lines. Rocky and steep in places, especially after Waypoint 02. Stock 4x4 SUVs can do it with careful tire placement and patience. No room to pass along several sections of narrow ledge roads. High clearance, low range and skid plates recommended.
History
The town of Mineral Point (also known as Mineral City), located near the San Juan Chief Mill, existed from 1873 to the 1890s. It served as a midpoint stop for prospectors heading toward what would soon become the town of Ouray. Stagecoaches and wagons used this road before Highway 550 was constructed, and side roads south of Waypoints 03 and 04 once ran directly through Mineral Point. As you drive through the area, please respect and protect what remains of these historic sites.
