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Gunnison Spur of the Colorado Trail

Basics
Location:
Gunnison
Setting:
Mountainous
Length:
20 miles oneway
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Time:
8 to 10 hours
Trailhead Elevation:
7800 feet
Elevation Change:
2300 feet
Season:
May - October

Description

It is convenient to start this trail right from town for a hike or mt. bike ride. The view from the radio towers provides a nice overlook of Gunnison particularly in the fall when the town’s trees have turned yellow. Further along, the long flat ridge above Signal Peak provide very nice views of the Ohio Creek Valley, West Elks and the more distant San Juan mountains to the south. Further from town you enter aspen and spruce forests toward the top of Lost Canyon.

The first part of the trail climbs steadily through College property to the radio towers. From there you follow along a 2 track road that follows the crest of rolling hills providing interesting views of the valleys below. Beyond Signal Peak, you continue eastward climbing to a long flat mesa. Follow the 2 track road through several gates as you enter the forest. You will intersect with a dirt road that heads north to the Lost Canyon Road. Follow that for a short way then look for a single track trail that heads east - parallel to the Lost Canyon Road for awhile finally ending up on the main road. This will take you to the top of the hill where you can find some nice camping spots. From there, the trail follows the road as it heads south then curves north as it drops down into Beaver Creek. It will continue north for about seven miles to meet the Taylor River Road at the Forest Service’s Onemile Campground.

Hazards/Considerations: Make sure to stay on the trail when crossing College land. Signs are posted in some places indicating the direction of the trails that need to be followed. It is important to be prepared for typical July and August afternoon thundershowers. Stay off ridges and away from open ground to avoid lightening strikes during storms. Be sure to bring sunscreen, raingear and drinking water. Be sure someone knows where you are going and when you plan to return. You are sharing the trails - be courteous to other users. Please help us take care of your public lands - Leave No Trace of your visit.

Details

Location:
Gunnison
Setting:
Mountainous
Length:
20 miles oneway
Gunnison to the Taylor Canyon Road
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Time:
8 to 10 hours
Trailhead Elevation:
7800
Elevation Change:
2300
Season:
May - October

Map + Directions

Basic Directions

From the center of Gunnison, drive east on Hwy. 50 about 6 blocks to Mc Donald’s. Turn left and go a long block to the first stop sign. Turn right and follow the curving road around the edge of the WSC campus. About halfway up the hill you will see a large parking lot for the WSC library. Park on the eastern edge of the parking lot and cross the road to the entrance of the trail.


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