Porphyry Gulch

Total Miles
2.6

Technical Rating

4

Moderate

Best Time

Summer, Fall

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

Show in App
Porphyry Gulch
5

Trail Overview

After completing this short trail, you will arrive at a beautiful spot with mountain lakes and waterfalls. If you're in an unlicensed vehicle, you may have trouble finding room to stage at the trailhead. Some drivers head in through the entrance to Black Bear, but the cut-over to this trail is unmarked and crosses private property. It could close without notice.

Photos of Porphyry Gulch

Porphyry Gulch
Porphyry Gulch

Difficulty

Mostly easy except for one section of high, narrow shelf road that may intimidate novice drivers. Hike if you don't feel comfortable.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

Greg Regier
Aug 13, 2023
4x4
Open
Normal
Michael Gray
Jul 31, 2023
4x4
Open
Normal
Josh Spurlock
Jul 09, 2023
4x4
Obstructed
Deep Snow

Access Description

Head south from Ouray on U.S. 550 about 13.5 miles. Turn right on F.S. 822 about a half mile after milepost 80. From Silverton, drive north on 550 about 9 miles.

Porphyry Gulch Map

Popular Trails

South Landfill Ridge

South Landfill Ridge

Total Miles
5.0
Tech Rating
3 Easy
Best Time
Fa / Sp
Democrat Mountain

Democrat Mountain

Total Miles
4.5
Tech Rating
5 Difficult
Best Time
Su / Fa
Bear Gulch Road - 158

Bear Gulch Road - 158

Total Miles
2.4
Tech Rating
4 Moderate
Best Time
Wi / Su / Fa / Sp
427 ATV

427 ATV

Total Miles
2.0
Tech Rating
3 Easy
Best Time
Sp / Su / Fa

The onX Offroad Difference

onX Offroad combines trail photos, descriptions, difficulty ratings, width restrictions, seasonality, and more in a user-friendly interface. Available on all devices, with offline access and full compatibility with CarPlay and Android Auto. Discover what you’re missing today!