Turkey Creek Trail #731

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This trail is a doubletrack mainly used by dirt bikes and ATVs; no OHV. Most motorized patrons are respectful of hikers, but be alert to the motorized vehicles, as they can come around blind corners fast and you may need to get off the trail quickly to avoid collision.

This is a doubletrack gravel and deep sandy trail mostly used by dirt bikes and ATVs. At the start, the trail winds through Aspen and mixed Pine. At the split; stay to the left; it splits with 713A and is well marked. At this point, the trail opens up to the burn scar of the Hayman Fire of 2002; to date the largest fire in Colorado's recorded history. The trail is lined with Aspen saplings starting regrowth from the fire; however no shade from the sun.

Within the first 1.5-miles, the trail crossed wooden planks that look to have crossed a creek at one time; however the creek is dry. After the wooden planks, the trail slightly descends and the is lined with young Aspen and Pine; a bit larger than the saplings; demonstrating more regeneration from the fire. Shortly, the trail comes upon a random, broken down wood bridge; however no water present. The trail has been widened by the motorized vehicles to go around the bridge instead of across. From there, the trail takes a slight ascent and is once again lined with Aspen Saplings; no cover from the sun. From here, you can see Signal Butte in the distance.

Before long, the trail goes through a gate; at this time; take a Left on 306C and hike about 15-meters and meet back up with Turkey Loop Trail #731 on the right. This junction is all very well marked. Before long, the trail crosses 306D and another set of gates; nevertheless the trail is straight ahead. At this stage; the trail is lined with more developed Pines that offer a bit of cover. In a short period of time, the trail ends at Hackett Gulch Trailhead.

Mixed aspen and pine, wildflowers, mule deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and variety of birds.