Ridge Stock Driveway #233
The Ridge Stock Driveway Trail #233 begins at the Matterhorn Trailhead off Forest Road #870.2A, enters the Uncompahgre Wilderness where Wilderness Regulations apply, and ends at the Alpine Forest Access Road, FSR #868. The trail travels through high alpine tundra and offers spectacular views of the mountain peaks over 13,000 feet. It is the main access to the Matterhorn Peak which raises 13,590 feet and the Wetterhorn Peak at 14,015 feet. This trail also provides alternative access to Uncompahgre Peak which rises to 14,309 feet. The Ridge Stock Driveway Trail parallels the Ridge Stock Driveway which is used to move sheep up to the high country in early summer and down in the fall. Trail Map
At a Glance
Open Season: | June |
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Usage: | Heavy |
Best Season: | Summer to Fall |
Restrictions: | Open to Hiking and Horseback. |
Closest Towns: | Lake City, CO |
General Information
Directions:Alpine Corrals Access:
From Lake City, travel north toward Gunnison on Highway 149 to the Alpine Forest Road, FSR #868. Follow the Alpine Forest Road for approximately 2.5 miles past the Alpine Plateau Road turnoff. The trail begins across Soldier Creek from the Alpine Corrals.
Matterhorn Creek Trailhead:
From Lake City, take the Engineer Pass Road along Henson Creek for approximately 10 miles to Capitol City. Turn right onto North Henson Road and continue for approximately 2.5 miles to the Matterhorn Creek Trailhead.
Parking:
Alpine Corrals: T. 46N., R. 5W., Section 30. U.S.G.S. Maps: Alpine Plateau and Uncompahgre Peak. Elevation: 10,700 feet.
Matterhorn Creek Trailhead: T. 44N., R. 6W., Section 26. U.S.G.S. Map: Uncompahgre Peak. Elevation: 11,200.