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Cliff Creek #840
The Cliff Creek Trail #840 begins at the Cliff Creek Trailhead across from Horse Ranch Park on Gunnison County Road 12 and ends at an intersection with the Soap Creek Trail #443. It enters into the heart of the West Elk Wilderness from the north, the well-defined trail climbs up through aspen and spruce forests to Beckwith Pass. Sweeping vistas of peaks and wildflower meadows reward the climber. The trail then descends to the headwaters of Cliff Creek and after traversing 0.5 miles of rocky terrain rolls easily through mixed forest dotted with meadows and ponds. After crossing the southern branch of Cliff Creek, there are several trail options to choose from. Castle Pass lies to the east, Soap Basin to the south, or go westward off Mosley Ridge to tie into the Little Robinson Trail #850.
At a Glance
| Open Season: | June |
|---|---|
| Usage: | Medium |
| Best Season: | Summer |
| Busiest Season: | Fall Hunting |
| Restrictions: | Open to hiking and horseback riding. |
| Closest Towns: | Crested Butte, CO and Paonia, CO |
General Information
Directions:From Paonia: Travel east on Hwy 133 for approximately 15 miles to County Road 12, Kebler Pass Road. Follow CR12 east for approximately 19 miles to Horse Ranch Park. The Cliff Creek Trailhead is on the right across from Horse Ranch Park.
From Crested Butte: Travel west on County Road 12, Kebler Pass Road, for approximately 11 miles. The Cliff Creek Trailhead is on the left just over the Ruby Anthracite Creek Bridge. Horse Ranch Park is on the right.
Parking:
T. 14 S.; R. 87 W.; Section 6. U.S.G.S. Map: Anthracite Range. Elevation: 8,858 feet. Latitude: N38.861, Longitude: W-107.164.
Activities
Day Hiking
Backpacking
Horse Riding
Related Information
Highlights
Location
