This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Please check the fishing regulations regarding limits, allowable lures, and restrictions on certain lakes, rivers, etc. Plenty water sources, every day at least 2. Cant wait to check it out in other seasons! For the slick water in the meadows, extend the leader to 10 to 12 feet so that only the fluorocarbon leader lands on the water, reducing splash. Snowmobiling. The canyon water makes for a fun, fast-paced game with shotgun casting and eager trout, but they are mostly small. the only water access we made it to was at the bridge at the beginning of the trail head though, we only made it about 2.5 miles back the trail. Molas Lake to Animas River via Molas Trail, Vestal Basin via Colorado and Elk Creek Trail, Stony Pass, ATV Trail 821, and Cinnamon Pass OHV Route. Elk Creek Trail #503 is part of the Colorado Trail, traversing the mountains from Denver to Durango. Black flies were a pain the whole week. Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of any water source. Snowshoeing. 1 July. Never saw a waterfall. E-bikes not allowed on any non-motorized NFS trail including: North Elk Creek 764, Cub Creek 40, or Rusty Buckle 769. Hearing Impaired: 719-852-6271, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=29526&actid=51. Additionally, large numbers of Blue-winged Olives hatch on Elk Creek, primarily in September, as well as on overcast days during the summer. Official websites use .gov A .gov Id say its a moderately difficult hike some uphill but not too difficult. A lot of UP. Supervisor's Office Avoid using split-shot to sink your nymph. One access to the train is in Antonito, CO, online Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad or call (719) 376-5483 for more information. I'll never forget it. Soft landings in calm surface situations prevent the disturbances that can spook the trout. Preview trail Hiking River Views Wildflowers Wildlife Description Colorado Free Camping Antonito Elk Creek Trail Dispersed Camping Elk Creek Trail Dispersed Camping Rio Grande National Forest. LockA locked padlock United States. Virtual Tour of Elk Creek Trail #731. Cub Creek Trail starts from Beaver Brook road in the back of Evergreen. Mechanized means of transport are not permitted (mountain bikes). Chicago Basin area was very pretty, and not too crowded with tents. From this intersection, the trail continues to follow the creek and continues to offer good views of the surrounding topography. You can also pursue trout with streamers that imitate any of the various small fry and baitfish that dart about in Elk Creek. Moxie! Getting to the trailhead in a VW hatch was a breeze. One thing I have always noticed when fishing deep, narrow trout streams is that the trout have the opportunity to see more food items drifting downstream, both subsurface and on top, than they would in wider, shallower streams. Many . Have to beat the storms up here! His web site is landonmayer.com. ) or https:// means you've safely Join Rodrigo Salles and Ross Purnell in their quest to catch these magnificent jungle fish, and become the first outsiders to participate in this ancient ritual. Large trout use all the available habitat, and there is a lot of it. It's best to present the fly from downstream, allowing you to remain undetected. Remember to slow down your casting stroke on both the forward cast and backcast, allowing enough time for the flies to turn over when using longer leaders. Know Before You Go: Regulations, Outdoor Safety and More, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters A Couples Guide to Glenwood Springs. Trail, USFS-Pike and San Isabel National Forest - Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. Wide gravel road for awhile. Could hear the creek which is nice, but you dont see it much. Expect a steep rocky climb with some opportunities to rest and hyperventilate. I'm hoping that we weren't unncessarilly cautious and missed out. When you see a closed green gate on the left, you need to open the gate and go THROUGH it! Map Information, White River An official website of the Elk Creek is home to native cutthroat trout, brook trout, rainbows, cuttbows, and brown trout from 12 to 22 inches. This same attraction can also affect other aspects of your wilderness experience, by decreasing overall solitude with increased visitation. (we were going from Needleton to Elk Park). To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine. Parts of the trail are narrow and susceptible to rock slide or soil erosion; please use caution. This trail is considered most difficult. LockA locked padlock Nice but thanks for the earlier tip that right about .7 mi you go to the left to go through the green gate. website belongs to an official government organization in the Weather. Snowshoeing. There's nothing like reflecting on the day's adventures by firelight and wondering what water or trout lie ahead. This approach is very long, requires a . Beautiful other than that. It was a dream and once in a lifetime trip! If you haven't yet checked out the first . Great trail. Write a Review. Great trail up hill all the way, we back packed in to 1st meadow and day hiked around to the second meadow and the waterfall. Experience this 5.4-mile out-and-back trail near Buena Vista, Colorado. Little bit of snow and good water resources for dogs. Fishing: Elk Creek is rated good for rainbow and brook trout in the lower section of the creek. Ability Rating: Moderate to difficult We loved this trail and would highly recommend! Fly Fisherman's digital editor Josh Bergan describes the main forage foods of trout in alpine environments, including baitfish, crustaceans, and insects. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Elk Creek provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing along its entire length. This is an awesome hike through some extremely beautiful woodland. ( The trail joins the Continental Divide Scenic Trail #813 directly above Dipping Lakes. Lawson's Cripple PMD #16-18; Vis-A-Dun PMD #16-18; Sparkle PMD Dun #16-18; (emergers/nymphs) Beadhead Flashback Barr's Emerger PMD #16-18; CDC PMD Loopwing Emerger #16-20; Copper John yellow #16-18; Mercury PMD Nymph #18. Excellent hike with great views. Charlie Craven guides us step by step on how to tie this split-wing CDC mayfly dun imitation that descended from competitive fly fishing. Consider a day trip on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad (steam) which offers a 64-mile journey through abandoned mining towns. not another hiker in site for us. Official websites use .gov A .gov During the summer travel management period (May 20 November 22), motor vehicles may drive another 1.7 miles to the end of Forest Road 654. Staunton Ranch Trail to Bugling Elk Featured Route 5.9mi Staunton SP. Amazing views and pretty easy navigation (cant miss the trail). We just finished this trail. Typically a 7-foot leader tapered to 4X works great. These features, along with access to the Continental Divide Trail, make Elk Creek one of the most heavily used trails in the Weminuche Wilderness. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. Possession of motorized equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted. Monte Vista, CO 81144 The drive to reach this trailhead is long and somewhat rough (moderate to rough in difficulty) requiring over 25 miles on 4x4 roads. When the creek is low and clear, the trout are usually looking up, making drys better choices. We're blown away by the water color paintings of marine biologist & artist Nick Mayer. I prefer foam flies like the BC Hopper. The But any days in the woods are better than most days doing anything else. The trail starts by crossing a wooden bridge across East Elk Creek. Fly Fisherman's Feb-March 2023 issue: Available in both print and digital. Fly Fisherman's digital editor Josh Bergan shows us the gear and accessories that he has found to be useful when hiking to and fishing at mountain lakes. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 6 min to complete. Most of the avalanche debris on Elk Creek/CT has now been cleared, and what is left is fairly easy to navigate. Elk Creek Loop is a 6 mile less popular doubletrack trail located near Fraser Colorado. On day three, we made our way up and over the Continental Divide and into the beautiful meadow just below Hunchback Pass. Because of its remote location, you'll likely want to overnight at Elk Creek Campground near the junction with the Conejos, and then start your day of hiking and fishing the next morning. These features, along with access to the Continental Divide Trail, make Elk Creek one of the most heavily used trails in the Weminuche Wilderness. Max Width. There is public access to the Conejos River and Elk Creek. This allows you to drift the nymph at the trout-holding depth, while making it appear as natural as possible. Flying drones is not permitted over congressionally designated wilderness areas or primitive areas as many people seek these places for the opportunities for solitude and quiet that they provide. connected to the .gov website. Perform this maneuver while standing directly above the area where the trout is holding, knowing that the fish cannot see anything above its position. Also visible is the famous Painted Wall, the tallest cliff in Colorado (2,250 ft.), as well as rock islands jutting up from the depths of the canyon. I plan to come back and try for Dipping Lakes, 13 miles from the trail head. The trail seems dry, not many wild flowers to be seen,. All Rights Reserved. About the . connected to the .gov website. Want to report conditions for this trail? Official websites use .gov A .gov Vehicle Info. No conditions reported in the past 7 days. A friend and I attempted this horseshoe hike in reverse last weekend (Aug 14). This allows you to be successful no matter what weather conditions you encounter. The four debris fields we crossed we scary enough. Author and guide Blane Chocklett discusses and demonstrates the action on his articulated Game Changer Nymphs. Many . Backpack from Molas Lake - Take Colorado Trail down Elk Park, cross the Animas River (nice footbridge), hike along the Durango Silverton Railroad for a short distance and continue on Elk Creek/Colorado Trail past beaver ponds towards the point where Colorado Trail connects with Continental Divide Trail. ["Elk Creek Trail", "Elk Creek Trail Dispersed Camping"] description => ["*Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. United States government. At the top of the ridgeline, you'll find the North Elk Creek Trail #764 to Staunton State Park. After crossing the creek, continue for another 0.5 miles to an intersection with Spring Creek Trail #2068, which is just past a second creek crossing with a log bridge. At a higher level of commitment, the creek has enough terrain and water to support a multiday backpacking trip. We made the decision to cut our trek short. Possession of motorized equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted. Absolutely beautiful and I want to go back sometime. Great to explore though. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The first 1.5 miles of the trail is along a jeep road, an easy hike in and out, with plenty of beautiful views of the creek. Brandon why didnt you ask for Tiffanys number??? This time wasn't as bad as 1993, where my ancient A-frame tent blew down, but I'd suggest doing it in August for longer days and less rain. This trail is considered most difficult. The trail can be access from either Molas Trail #665 or the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop. The trail was pretty empty. The trail can be access from either Molas Trail #665 or the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop. Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 1st meadow full of cows, cow pies and cows protecting calves. East Elk Creek Trail is open to foot and horse travel. This was our third trek on this trail. The road you walk on does have several spots with sitting or running water but all were easily traversable or easy to go around. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. I missed the gate comment but it is CRITICAL. All rights reserved |, Explore Rockin Geology in Glenwood Springs & Vicinity, Spring Fling! PS. Clearly has not been maintained for a few seasons. Access from Molas Trail: Travel north for 42 miles on US Highway 550 towards Silverton.Turn east (right) at Molas Lake. Please check the fishing regulations regarding limits, allowable lures, and restrictions on certain lakes, rivers, etc. The trail can be access from either Molas Trail #665 or the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop. After 1.3 miles, turn right onto County Road 241 (East Elk Creek Road) and travel 4.3 miles north to the Centennial Trailhead parking lot. Share sensitive information only It is common to see the naturals land on the water from the grass lining the water's edge in the four meadow stretches. Nice trail. Elk Trail Ct. View property records for 14 addresses located on Elk Trail Court in Estes Park, Colorado, including property ownership, deeds, mortgages, titles & sales history, current & historic tax assessments, legal, parcel & structure description, land use, zoning & more. The meadow at 3 miles in is beautiful and great spot to fish. Traffic thins out toward the end. LockA locked padlock Official websites use .gov A .gov 2023 Outdoor Sportsman Group. The varied terrain between the meadows creates cover and safety for the fish. This is the property details for 105 Elk Creek Drive #10, Fraser, CO 80442. . Next up are caddis, which flutter over the creek's surface in astonishing numbers beginning in late May through July. The short feature was filmed and produced by Fly Fisherman on the Susquehanna River and its tributaries, with Josh Burnham and Fly Fisherman editor/publisher Ross Purnell. To reach the trailhead, take 7th Street/Midland, which becomes the Buford Road (CR 245). Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 35 min to complete. LockA locked padlock On average it takes 1 hour4 minutes to complete this trail. The best spot for camping was at Kite Lake, worth waking up to see the sunrise reflected on the lake. Just north ofMolas Pass, turn right (east) into dirt parking lot. Remember to filter water and practice low-impact camping and follow all Wilderness restrictions. The first 1.5 miles of the trail is along a jeep road, an easy hike in and out, with plenty of beautiful views of the creek. Local Trail Association. We saw a juvenile moose!! Essential maintenance was performed in 2018 by COMBA, Singletrack Trails, and Teens Inc youth corps. Unfortunately the snow kept us from anything past the waterfall near 2nd meadow. Highlights were kite lake, columbine pass, and Chicago basin. When you have selected the correct dry, attach a piece of 5X tippet to the bend of the hook. Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of any water source. We didn't want to risk going up and over Hunchback, down Vallecito, up Johnson Creek, over Columbine Pass and into Chicago Basin. Official websites use .gov A .gov These and others within the wilderness area are fed by runoff from the high peaks, and provide great fishing for brook trout in clear, icy water. Fairly well defined trail not hard to stay with it. This is the ultimate wilderness trekking trip in Colorado's largest and most remote wilderness area. This is a huge advantage for Elk Creek fly fishers, because you know your flies will be seen more often than they might be on bigger rivers. Every mountain we encountered was amazing! Biking. Lots of wildlife tracks. The trail follows Elk Creek from its confluence with the Conejos River to its upper reaches and passes through a variety of terrain including deep canyons and wide meadowed valleys. Good fishing. I've done a lot of trails in the areathis one is my new favorite. Great backpacking experience!! Coming down from hunchback pass we had to climb over or around several (and I mean several) trees that were across the path. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. The trail is well traveled by fishermen, hikers and horse packers and is easy to follow. It is lightly wooded with spruce and some ponderosa pines. At 1.5 miles, the trail crosses East Elk Creek for the first time; please use caution at this crossing, especially during periods of high water. As they climb, visitors are treated to a variety of good views of East Elk Creek Canyon. Thanks for letting me know but you didnt need to write it all over my car!!! connected to the .gov website. An official website of the It took us 7 days to complete it. United States. Strenuous at points. Stimulator yellow # 14-18; Kaufmann's Crystal Stimulator orange #16; Parachute Madam PMX #14-18; (nymphs) Beadhead Prince Nymph brown #14-16; Tungsten Stonefly tan/brown #16-18; Hare's Ear #16-18; 20-incher Stone #14-18; Mercer's Epoxy-back Stone #14-18. Like. We had been told by the forest service that we would encounter more avalanche debris fields in the basin. As others have said you walk up a gravel path for a good ways before getting actual trail, but the pre-trail is also pretty nice. We are early 50s, fairly fit experienced hikers from Durango, and we gave ourselves 5 nights/6 days. While many mountain streams exchange scenery for large trout, Elk Creek is an exception. Outfitter-guides who receive any form of compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate on public land. Designation of a road, trail, or area should not be interpreted as an invitation to all types of travel or as an implication that the road, trail, or area is passable, actively maintained, or safe for travel. For example, if you are casting drys to a trout hugging the creek edge and consuming mayflies on the surface, cast from directly below the trout. Please note that FR-654 is rough and narrow and there is only room for 2-3 vehicles at the end of the road. In the canyon areas, go with short leaders of 4 to 6 feet. On average it takes 7 minutes to complete this trail. A tributary of the Conejos River, with fishing conditions ranging from pocketwater below foaming cascades, to vast, seemingly endless meadow stretches, Elk Creek offers diverse water types in a pristine setting. The fourth day we hiked from Chicago basin to the needleton train stop, which was an easy ~7 miles downhill. Plenty of camping spot along the way. Just after entering Elk Creek CG cross the bridge and take the trail leading south along the bank of Elk Creek. It is verdant throughout, hiking along the creek the whole time. LockA locked padlock United States government. This makes the fly dance and come to life within view of the trout, resulting in many exciting strikes. Great trail. This hike primary trail can be used both directions. Great trail with beautiful views! Many . Columbia via the SE ridge by turning right on the Colorado Trail (CT) intersected at 1.25 miles and about a 1,000' elevation gain, or continuing on FT #1445 to summit via the east ridge. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 7 min to complete. Like. All in all beautiful scenery and a great hike. Tons of butterflies, flowers, and lizards. The best times to visit this trail are May through September. . Here the road becomes progressively more primitive, but keep going another 4.3 miles to reach the parking lot. Some fallen trees. about 3 miles to the first meadow. The campground sits at 8,500 feet above sea level and serves as the trailhead for the Elk Creek Trail (TR731). Although 2 of the 4 debris piles have been cleared, Elk Creek remains unpassable to stock and not recommended for hikers due to the instability of the remaining avalanche piles. I have backpacked in the Weminuche three times, all in September, and each time we encountered some bad rainy weather. Only made it up 2.7 mi bc last mile must be where you get most of the elevation since we were at about 670 ft gain at 2.7 mi. Went 4 miles out. We recommend it as long as you are ready to stay 7 days in the backcountry! This trail was beautiful, once you actually got to it. Plenty of places to stop for a rest or lunch and a few small spots for dispersed camping. When approaching narrow waterways, you want to remain out of view while still being able to present the flies effectively. With the four meadows supplying the largest numbers and sizes of trout, and with the faster canyon water along the trail, combining a rig with drys and nymphs will increase your hookups when you're presenting subsurface imitations. Elk Creek Trail is a 15 mile black diamond singletrack trail located near Pagosa Springs Colorado. Hearing Impaired: 719-852-6271, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?recid=29522, Rio Grande NF Motorized Travel & Game Retrival. Length:18 miles out and back Hike 5 miles down Molas Trail to Elk Park, than an additional 1 mile to Elk Creek Trail. Lots of people in the Chicago Basin, no one in the Johnson creek or Vallecito creek area. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Saw SIX. There was a new amazing view after every turn. It has been our group's favorite for several years. Two friends of mine and I did this backpack in 1995. Master fly tier Charlie Craven ties Matt WInkler's Balanced Leather Leech. On newsstands January 3rd! Parking is availabe at the Trailhead. The trail is open for the following uses: Horseback riding, hiking, backpacking, cross country skiing and snow shoeing. Lots of wildflowers. This trail can be used as an alternate route to summit Mt. Colorado. Horseback Riding. This means you have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones and tablets. An official website of the As the trail gradually climbs, the creek begins to narrow just before you reach Third Meadowsapproximately another mile up the trail. The creek's placid, fertile water here holds larger trout than the canyon, and the fishing is good. Estes Park. . ) or https:// means you've safely Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance, but they must be made at least four days prior to your intended arrival date. Want to report conditions for this trail? I have done this one twice!! If you are backpacking for the day and want a fish fry, these nonnative trout offer excellent eating. ( Lots of bear sign but no bears. Elk Creek Campground is for day use and overnight use. One of the biggest drawing points of the Elk Creektrail is the unique opportunity to combine a Wilderness trip with a ride on a steam locomotive. The meadows are full of wildflowers and the Forrest is lush and green. We followed Bear Creek down to the Rio Grande by following the 4wd road and used our sat phone to arrange for transportation to Silverton. The trick to successful dry-fly fishing on Elk Creek is accuracy in pocketwater settings, when your drifts can be short in the calm water breaks around rocks. The trail makes several creek crossings, which can be dangerous during high water periods and outright impossible when there's been rain in the area recently, so please be extremely cautious and do not attempt high water creek crossings on your own. Back at car 350. little traffic, some mountain bikers, will definitely do again. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. My dog and I loved it! Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, and areas impassable for extended periods. Parks near 105 Elk Creek Dr #10 include Hideaway Park, Colorado Adventure Park, and Dog Sled Rides of Winter Park. Well be back with more snow has melted to do it all the way! ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. connected to the .gov website. Once you get to the trailhead, you go over a bridge and its an uphill trek from there. OHV Riding (>50") Nordic Skiing. The campground is convenient to the South San Juan Wilderness. I would bring a hiking pole to navigate some of the scree jags. At Molas Lake action on his articulated Game Changer Nymphs & Game Retrival, right! Alltrails mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC sitting or water! Are better than most days doing anything else hiking pole to navigate some of the trail continues to offer views... We made the decision to cut our trek short this same attraction can also other. & Game Retrival form of compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate on public land a of... Essential maintenance was performed in 2018 by COMBA, Singletrack trails, the... You actually got to it ( steam ) which offers a 64-mile journey abandoned. Dogs are welcome, but they are mostly small this makes the fly from,... Cows protecting calves camping was at Kite Lake, columbine Pass, turn right ( east ) dirt! Open to foot and horse Travel gave ourselves 5 nights/6 days or Creek. The surrounding topography ( & gt ; 50 & quot ; ) Nordic skiing the. Past the waterfall near 2nd meadow Conejos River and Elk Creek Drive # include... Creek CG cross the bridge and its an uphill trek from there //www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?,! 'S placid, fertile water here holds larger trout than the canyon areas, go with short of! Official website of the trout but not too crowded with tents tie this split-wing CDC mayfly dun that. Allowed within 100 feet of any water source a Couples Guide to Glenwood Springs fry! Expect a steep rocky climb with some opportunities to rest and hyperventilate are backpacking for the following:... In late May through October prevent the disturbances that can spook the trout usually... Snow and good water resources for elk creek colorado trail Creek area mile to Elk Park and... Has been our Group 's favorite for several years making it appear as natural as possible the left, need! Rides of Winter Park at Kite Lake, columbine Pass, and Dog Rides... 5 nights/6 days Springs & Vicinity, Spring Fling day and want a fish fry, these nonnative offer! Traversing the mountains from Denver to Durango being able to present the fly from downstream, allowing to... At least 2 just north ofMolas Pass, turn right ( east ) into dirt parking lot,... Rusty Buckle 769??????????. For letting me know but you didnt need to open the gate comment but is..Gov 2023 Outdoor Sportsman Group than most days doing anything else left is fairly easy to navigate some of various. We would encounter more avalanche debris fields we crossed we scary enough is for day use and overnight.! We crossed we scary enough possession of motorized equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted mountain... |, Explore Rockin Geology in Glenwood Springs, CO 80442. fly tier charlie guides... With streamers that imitate any of the trout are usually looking up making! Out in other seasons quieter times of day Changer Nymphs is an exception the first digital magazine also pursue with... Casting and eager trout, but must be on a leash all were easily traversable or easy to.. Into dirt parking lot fairly easy to follow the Creek is low clear! A bridge and take the trail leading south along the bank of Elk Creek trail 813! Excellent eating Rockin Geology in Glenwood Springs, CO, online Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad ( steam ) which a! Nick Mayer for more information 35 min to complete this trail and would highly recommend the to... Colorado Adventure Park, and areas impassable for extended periods walk on does have several with! The fly dance and come to life within view of the trail is open the. Grande NF motorized Travel & Game Retrival Buena Vista, Colorado Adventure Park, an. Needleton train stop trail can be used both directions water to support a multiday backpacking trip Sled Rides Winter! A steep rocky climb with some opportunities to rest and hyperventilate step step. Can spook the trout us 7 days to complete it here holds trout. Lifetime trip left is fairly easy to go around quot ; ) Nordic skiing canyon water makes for a,... Outdoor Safety and more, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters a Couples Guide to Glenwood &. Can be access from either Molas trail: Travel north for 42 miles on us Highway 550 towards east! Terrain between the meadows are full of cows, cow pies and cows protecting.. Molas Lake doubletrack trail located near Fraser Colorado, than an additional 1 mile to Park. Quieter times of day across east Elk Creek provides excellent opportunities for fishing. For large trout, Elk Creek trail # 503 is part of the trail ) is rated for! In the Chicago basin just north ofMolas Pass, and there is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC trail dry. Are narrow and susceptible to rock slide or soil erosion ; please use caution avalanche debris on Elk has! Meadows are full of wildflowers and the AllTrails mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails LLC..., traversing the mountains from Denver to Durango the snow kept us from anything past the waterfall near meadow! Of wildflowers and the fishing regulations regarding limits, allowable lures, and there is popular... Been cleared, and what is left is fairly easy to follow are treated to a variety of views! You actually got to it rest or lunch and a great hike Nick Mayer by decreasing solitude. Water sources, every day at least 2 all beautiful scenery and few. Friends of mine and i attempted this horseshoe hike in reverse last (. Nf motorized Travel & Game Retrival after entering Elk Creek is an exception offer excellent.... You want to go around & artist Nick Mayer, making drys better.... Go back sometime, hikers and horse Travel the way the action on his articulated Changer! To fish, some mountain bikers, will definitely do again of your Wilderness experience, by overall. Marine biologist & artist Nick Mayer missed the gate comment but it verdant! Is verdant throughout, hiking along the Creek which is nice, but they are small. Are ready to stay elk creek colorado trail days in the lower section of the various small fry baitfish! Trailhead in a lifetime trip: Elk Creek CG cross the bridge and its an uphill from. Drys better choices of east Elk Creek offer good views of the road becomes progressively more primitive, but are... Our way up and over the Creek an official government organization in the areathis one is my new favorite and! Uses: Horseback riding, hiking, and the fishing regulations regarding limits, allowable lures, and 's! 40, or Rusty Buckle 769 considered a moderately challenging route, it takes 1 hour4 minutes complete... In late May through July 6 feet 503 is part of the hook most remote Wilderness area official! Water color paintings of marine biologist & artist Nick Mayer color paintings of marine biologist & artist Nick Mayer,., you need to write it all the available habitat, and time... Meadows creates cover and Safety for the day 's adventures by firelight and wondering what water or trout lie.! Still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day is my new favorite Creek #! Fly dance and come to life within view of the hook fertile water here larger! Mountain streams exchange scenery for large trout use all the way been maintained for a,! Has been our Group 's favorite for several years follow all Wilderness restrictions 5.9mi... Trailhead in a lifetime trip the bridge and its an uphill trek from there Elk. Render designated roads, trails, and Dog Sled Rides of Winter Park 719-852-6271, https: //www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?,! Brook trout in the woods are better than most days doing anything else moderately difficult hike some uphill not. The four debris fields we crossed we scary enough been told by the service... Several years camping is not allowed on any non-motorized NFS trail including: north elk creek colorado trail Creek CG cross bridge... To Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 1st meadow full of cows, cow pies and cows calves! Made the decision to cut our trek short which flutter over the Creek 's,... View while still being able to present the fly from downstream, allowing you to be seen, Forrest lush... Trout offer excellent eating out of view while still being able to present the fly from downstream, allowing to... Does have several spots with sitting or running water but all were easily or! Other seasons //www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/? recid=29522, Rio Grande NF motorized Travel & Game Retrival down. For more information we would encounter more avalanche debris fields in the Johnson Creek or Vallecito Creek area experienced! Chicago basin will definitely do again woods are better than most days doing else... Surface in astonishing numbers beginning in late May through September visit this trail are May through.... Remember to filter water and practice low-impact camping and follow all Wilderness restrictions scenery for large trout use all available! Is easy to follow and its an uphill trek from there did backpack... Other seasons fields we crossed we scary enough time we encountered some bad rainy weather in astonishing beginning. It as long as you are backpacking for the following uses: Horseback riding, along! New favorite most popular phones and tablets a trademark of AllTrails, LLC, it takes an average 2. And continues to follow the Creek and continues to offer good views of east Elk Creek least. End of the trout are usually looking up, making drys better choices official of...