Elk Mountain Trail Loop
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Elk Mountain Trail Loop
Difficulty Rating:
The Elk Mountain Trail is a loop hike that passes under Obstruction Peak, up to Elk Mountain, and back through the lower valley. This 4.3mi hike is moderately difficult, with a few steep sections but nothing that the novice hiker can’t handle. You can hike either way, but most hikers prefer going clockwise.
Getting there
The trailhead for Elk Mountain Trail Loop is at the end of Obstruction Point Road.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | April-October |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Lollipop |
Elk Mountain Trail Loop
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Elk Mountain Trail Loop Description
The Elk Mountain Trail Loop is a pretty hike of moderate difficulty that takes you underneath Obstruction Peak and up to Elk Mountain before dropping down into the river valley. Most hikers prefer this route clockwise, which is how we’ll describe it.
Begin from the trailhead, taking the trail on your left to wrap under Obstruction Peak. At the junction of the loop, stay to the left to go clockwise. You’ll climb into the ridge and then hike just under the ridge to Elk Mountain. From here, the trail makes a sharp turn and drops steeply into the valley. It turns abruptly to the right and then crosses the creek.
Cross over the valley floor before making one final ascent up a set of narrow switchbacks to where the trail meets. You’re not far from the trailhead from here!
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