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This long trail connects with the Hermosa Creek Trail and is primarily used by bikers.


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Map Key

9.9

Miles

16.0

KM

Point to Point

10,449' 3,185 m

High

8,403' 2,561 m

Low

1,717' 523 m

Up

2,128' 649 m

Down

7%

Avg Grade (4°)

35%

Max Grade (19°)

Dogs Leashed

Description

Directions to the trailhead:
From Durango, drive approximately 22 miles north on 550 to Needles Country Store on the left (west) side of the highway, a center with a gas station, grocery and outdoor stores, and corral. Park at the south end, closest to the corral. The trailhead is not readily visible, but follow the path towards the corral until you reach the Elbert Creek Trail sign. Go through the gates adjacent to the corral to begin the trail.

Shortly after beginning the trail there is a creek crossing. Look for the log bridge with a rope handle on the right hand side of the trail to make your way across the creek.

The trail switchbacks from here through an aspen forest. Looking up you can catch a glimpse of Castle Rock through the trees, and looking down at the valley and Electra Lake. This part of the trail is especially striking in the fall when the aspens are golden.

When the trail starts to straighten out and head up the valley, you'll come upon an old log cabin that is the property of the San Juan National Forest. The "Y" trail junction is just past the cabin in an open meadow often filled with wildflowers. At this unmarked junction, bear right to continue up a hillside to Castle Rock.

The Elbert Creek trail, however, continues up valley for a few more miles before descending for nearly five miles to the Hermosa Creek Trail.

Contacts

Shared By:

Eden Brecht

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 4 votes

#4

in Durango

#11684

Overall
  4.0 from 4 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
50%
3 Star
25%
2 Star
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1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#4

in Durango

#1,040

in Colorado

#11,684

Overall
7 Views Last Month
2,648 Since Oct 16, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Hike through the aspens.
Oct 16, 2015 near Rico, CO
Upper meadows with fall colors.
Sep 26, 2023 near Rico, CO
This old log cabin is the property of the San Juan National Forest. Look for the trail junction just beyond the cabin.
Oct 16, 2015 near Rico, CO
The trail is a bit sandy and loose in places.
Oct 20, 2015 near Rico, CO
Looking east towards Electra Lake.
Sep 26, 2023 near Rico, CO
Ferns turning yellow below the aspens in late September.
Sep 26, 2023 near Rico, CO

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