Greens Creek Trail

Area Status: Open

This trail offers a variety of scenery on its passage to the Continental Divide. The trail follows the creek with several beaver ponds located along the way. A small shelterhouse is located 6.8 miles up the trail. The trail is lush and green and a great wildflower viewing area.

At a Glance

Permit Info:	Special use permits are required for all commercial activities including outfitting and guiding. Please contact the Salida Ranger District at 719-539-3591 for more information.
Usage:	Light-Medium
Best Season:	Summer and Fall
Busiest Season:	Summer
Closest Towns:	Poncha Springs or Salida, Colorado
Water:	No
Restroom:	No
Operated By:	Salida Ranger District

General Information

Directions:

From Poncha Springs, travel west on Highway 50 for approximately 2 miles. Turn left on County Road 220 and travel west on this road for about 1.75 miles to the junction with CR 221. CR 221 travel southwest for approximately 2 miles to the trailhead. A small pull-off is located on the right side of the road. From the trailhead, the road continues as Forest road 221 and travels south ona 4-wheel drive road to an old mining site.

Accessibility:

This area is not universally accessible.

General Notes:

Abandoned mines are never safe to enter and visitors should use caution when exploring mining sites located on public lands. Some historic mining sites are located on private lands and visitors may respect private property rights by not trespassing.

Parking:

Parking is limited to 3-4 vehicles at this trailhead.

Activities

Day Hiking

The hike up Greens Creek is a steady climb but well worth the effort when you reach the top of the Divide. There are numerous beaver ponds along the way.

Backpacking

The Greens Creek trail follows the stream and winds its way up to the Continental Divide. Beaver ponds abound along this trail and the wildflowers are spectacular during July.

Note: Motorcycles are allowed on this trail. Most often hikers will encounter them coming down from the Divide and exiting via Greens Creek.

Status:	Open
Difficulty Level:	Intermediate

OHV Trail Riding

This trail is open to motorcycles as a single-track trail to the top of the Continental Divide. The trail is challenging and should be attempted by experienced riders, only!