Chalk Creek Canyon
Chalk Creek Canyon, one of the valley's most popular areas.The Chalk Creek canyon was once home to the Chalk Creek mining district, one of Colorado's richest mining districts. During the 1870's and 1880's the towns of Hortense, Alpine, St. Elmo, Romley and Hancock thrived as a result of the discovery of gold and silver-laden ore.
Camping and campfires are restricted in the Chalk Creek Canyon to Mt. Princeton Campground, Chalk Lake Campground, Cascade Campground and Iron City Campground only. Campers who are unable to find a campsite in one of the four developed campgrounds may camp above the townsite of St. Elmo on County Road 267 or near the Hancock townsite located 5 miles south on Forest Road 295. Additional camping is available in the Browns Creek area south of County Road 162 at the junction of County roads 270 and 272.
An information and interpretive kiosk detailing the history and geology of the area is located just off of County Road 162.
The Chalk Creek Trailhead for Colorado Trail #1776 is located across the road from this site.
General Information
Several interpretive signs tell the story of the Chalk Creek canyon and its history and geology. Chalk Creek canyon is a popular visitor attraction during the summer months.
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 38.717417
Longitude: -106.199444
Directions
From Buena Vista, Colorado, travel south for about 7 miles on Highway 285. Turn right onto County Road 162, and travel west passing the Mt. Princeton Hot Springs resort (private), for 6 miles. An information kiosk is located on the right side of the road, just across from the Colorado Trail (#1776) trailhead.
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
