Cow Creek #220
The Cow Creek Trail #220 begins at the end of Forest Service Road #857 and ends an intersection with the Wetterhorn Basin Trail #226. The trail switchbacks steeply for the first 0.5 miles as it climbs to the Uncompahgre Wilderness boundary. It continues to ascend until it reaches a series of switchbacks that climb to 10,400 feet. The trail ascends to an elevation of 13,200 feet before turning south and starting to descend. There are beautiful views of the Wetterhorn Basin and Wetterhorn Creek. Most of this trail is within the Uncompahgre Wilderness Area so Wilderness Regulations do apply.
At a Glance
Open Season: | June |
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Usage: | Medium |
Best Season: | Summer |
Busiest Season: | Summer |
Restrictions: | Open to Hiking and Horseback. |
Closest Towns: | Ridgeway, CO |
General Information
Directions:From Ridgeway, travel south on Hwy 550 for approximately 0.3 miles, from the traffic light in Ridgeway, to County Road 12. Turn left onto CR 12 and continue for approximately 8 miles to the Uncompahgre National Forest boundary. At the boundary, CR 12 becomes Forest Service Road #857. Follow FSR #857 for approximately 4 miles to the end of the road and the Cow Creek Trail access.
Parking:
T. 44 N.; R. 7 W.; Section 3. U.S.G.S. Map: Wetterhorn Peak. Elevation: 8,327 feet. Litatude: N38.095, Longitude: W-107.609.