Ute Creek Trail #819

The Ute Creek Trail (#819) is 13.2 miles long. It begins at Ute Trailhead and ends at the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (#813). The trail gains elevation steadily throughout the duration of the hike, with several sets of switchbacks in the steeper sections. The trail begins at roughly 9,500 ft, reaches Black Lake at 10,900 ft, and then tops out at the junction with the CDT at 11,500 ft.

Ute Creek Trail is the main access route into the vast Ute Basin Area. Four major fishable lakes sit below the Continental Divide in the beautiful basin. The Ute Creek Trail is a popular route with Weminuche Wilderness visitors. Many trail travel options are available once hikers reach the open basin area past Black Lake including: West Ute Trail, East Ute Trail, and Ute Lake Trail.

Fishing is good in the creeks and lakes of the Ute Drainage. Travelers will also enjoy inspiring views of The Window and The Rio Grande Pyramid.

The main Ute Creek Trail begins with a sometimes-difficult crossing of the Rio Grande River. Spring and early summer crossings of the river at the trailhead should not be attempted, and it can be challenging after heavy rains as well. After the river crossing, the trail climbs at a gentle grade along the east-facing slope of Ute Creek for approximately two miles. Shortly thereafter the trail is carved into a short ¼ mile segment of cliff-like topography. Those traveling by horse should use caution along this section as the trail is narrow and frequently skirts along steep cliff faces.

The trail then begins to closely parallel Ute Creek for approximately one mile. The trail will then turn gradually away from the immediate creek bottom and start a steep ascent toward Black Lake. Immediately after passing the shore of Black Lake, the trail will break out into the vast open meadow area at the confluence of East, West and Middle Ute Creeks. The trail descends into this meadow, before continuing roughly 5 miles up toward a junction with the CDT. Travelers wishing to continue towards Twin Lakes will continue South Easterly along the CDT before reconnecting to Ute Creek Trail.

While this trail is routinely maintained, due to beetle-kill, there may be downed trees across the trail at any time. Please use caution while camping in or traveling through this area as dead or damaged trees present serious hazards.

The trail is open for the following uses: Foot Travel and Horseback Riding. This trail is entirely within the Weminuche Wilderness.