Elk Creek Trail
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Elk Creek Trail
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Hiking the Elk Creek Trail is a fantastic experience in Colorado that will take you along the banks of a scenic creek set in the San Juan Mountains. While out on the trail, you will pass through serene stretches of woodland terrain and wildflower-strewn meadows, as you take in the natural beauty and sounds of flowing water from Elk Creek. Hikers should make sure to bring bear spray in order to prevent a potentially dangerous encounter.
Getting there
The Elk Creek Trailhead can be found along Forest Service Road 128, just southwest of the Elk Creek Campground.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | April-October |
| Pets allowed | Yes |
| Family friendly | Older Children only |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Elk Creek Trail
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Elk Creek Trail Description
Whether you are after a fun hiking route to pair with a weekend of camping in the area or are simply looking for a great day hike, the Elk Creek Trail is a fantastic adventure on which you can experience the natural beauty of the San Juan Mountains of Colorado.
Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way to the northwest through the tree cover and cross over the rushing waters of Elk Creek. Here, you will turn more directly to the west and follow the creek bank as it leads you into a forested gulch.
Take some time here, as you meander through the woods and enjoy the sound of rushing water and the beautiful scenery surrounding you in every direction. Eventually, you will pass through a series of beautiful meadows, before arriving at the endpoint of the route. From here, simply turn back along the trail to relive the scenery on the return leg of the hike back into the trailhead.
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