Colorado Trail - Junction Creek Trail
Junction Creek Trail #533 is the southern most segment of the Colorado Trail, a through hike that begins near Denver, CO. Starting at the trailhead, the first couple miles is mild as it follows Junction Creek, making it great for kids. After crossing a wooden footbridge at ~2.5 miles, the trail begins to climb. At mile 3.8, you reach a lovely lookout sport towards Durango at Gudy's Rest. After a total of 19 miles, Junction Creek Trail ends at Sliderock Trail #622. Sliderock trail continues another 2.4 miles to the top of Kennebec Pass. The climb from the trailhead to Kennebec Pass is 4,790', which is the greatest single altitude change on the Colorado Trail.
Keep in mind two hazards: flash floods can occur in the flood plains, and there is poison ivy. Water is scarce after leaving the canyon floor.
- Distance (one-way): 19 miles
- Minimum/starting elevation: 7,000 feet
- Maximum/ending elevation: 10,360 feet
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
General Information
Scare after leaving canyon floor
Non-motorized use only
Address: 367 Pearl Street Bayfield, CO 81122
Phone: (970) 884-2512
Hours: Friday only, 10:00am-4:30pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Parking
Junction Creek Trailhead; restrooms open seasonally.
Directions
From Durango, CO: From downtown Durango, travel north on Main Street (Hwy 550), turn left (west) on 25th Street which becomes Junction Creek Rd, 204. Continue on road approximately 3.5 miles. Just after the road turns to dirt, the trailhead will be on the left. Parking is limited.
Recreation Opportunities
Fishing - River/Stream Info
Junction Creek contains rainbow trout and brook trout in the higher elevations.
Recreation Groups
The Colorado Trail (CT) covers 567 miles between Denver and Durango passing through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Colorado Rockies.