Swampy Pass #439


The Swampy Pass area is an especially scenic one, with well marked and consistent trails averaging only a 7% slope. This area offers the backpacker and horseback rider great opportunities for an overnight trip in conjunction with the Low Line Trails #438 and the Cliff Creek Trail #840.  This trail is within the West Elk Wilderness where wilderness regulations apply. After diverging off the Low Line Trail, Swampy Pass Trail #439 rises moderately toward Swampy Pass. The trail winds through open stands of aspen and spruce trees. Near Swampy Pass, the views of the Anthracite Range are very good.

Geo-Ref Trail Map   Geo-Reference Instructions

At a Glance

Open Season: June
Usage: Light
Best Season: Summer
Busiest Season: Fall Hunting
Restrictions: Open to Hiking and Horseback.
Closest Towns: Crested Butte, CO

General Information

Directions:

From Gunnison: Follow State Hwy 135 north to Gunnison County Road 730, Ohio Creek Rd. Follow County Road 730 approximately 18 miles to the Swampy Pass Trailhead.

From Crested Butte: Follow Gunnison County Road 12, Kebler Pass Road for approximately 5.5 miles until the intersection with Gunnison County Road 730, Ohio Creek Rd. Follow Gunnison County Road 730 for approximately 4 miles to the Swampy Pass Trailhead.

From Paonia:  Travel East on State Hwy 133 for approximately 16 miles to the junction with Gunnison County Road 12, Kebler Pass Road. Follow Gunnison County Road 12 for approximately 13.5 miles to the Cliff Creek Trail #840 Trailhead, across from Horse Ranch Park. Follow the Cliff Creek Trail for approximately 2.5 miles to the intersection with the Lowline Trail #438. Follow the Lowline Trail #438 for approximately 1.25 miles until it intersects with the Swampy Pass Trail #439.
 


Parking:

Swampy Pass Trailhead, Gunnison Ranger District, T. 14 S.; R. 2 W., Section 35. U.S.G.S. Map: Mt. Axtell. Elevation: 9,035 feet. Latitude: N38.801, Longitude: W-107.087.

Cliff Creek Trailhead, Paonia Ranger District, 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

Horse Riding

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Area/Length : 
5.25 miles

  Elevation : 
9,000 - 10,400