Basics
- Location:
- Near Steamboat Springs
- Setting:
- Mountainous
- Length:
- 12.6 mile roundtrip
- Difficulty:
- Intermediate
- Time:
- 6.5 to 7.5 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 6800 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 1600 feet
- Season:
- Late Spring - Fall
Basic Directions
West of Steamboat on U.S. 40 approximately 2 miles. Turn north on County Road #129, Elk River Road. Travel about 7 miles to parking lot on right side of road.
Description
Trail #1171
The grade on the trail is steadily up until it drops into the Mad Creek drainage. Hiking does become less difficult once the ridge top is reached. This trail is used by hunters during the fall. Water is not available enroute. Hitch rail is provided for horses.
This trail leaves the Elk River Road and immediately switchbacks up a brush covered hillside of the Elk River Valley. It passes through stands of aspen and lodgepole pine, and offers outstanding views of the Elk River Valley and Yampa Valley. The trail proceeds up the ridge between the Cabin Creeks. Neither creek is visible from the trail itself until the trail starts its descent into Mad Creek where you cross the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness boundary. At this point, excellent views of the rugged upper Mad Creek area are available. Connecting with trail #1100, it offers the opportunity to continue north to Swamp Park or south into Mad Creek. Return to Mad Creek Trailhead on the Elk River road.
Tour Companies
Vista Verde Guest Ranch - Hiking
- Near Steamboat Springs
- Hiking
- 970-879-3858
At Vista Verde Ranch, hiking is one of the many activities you can try during your all-inclusive Colorado ranch vacation. Our guides offer a customized outdoor experience whether you want to rock climb, mountain bike, fly fish or horseback ride.Helpful Links
Tour Companies
Vista Verde Guest Ranch - Hiking
- Near Steamboat Springs
- Hiking
- 970-879-3858
