Tucked in under time-worn cliffs at Mesa Verde National Park are the crumbling cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo, an entirely evocative place that is readily explored on foot.
Local legend has it that the creek got its name when an early fall blizzard trapped a local rancher's cattle. When the local cowhands got through the heavy snow, they found that all of the cattle had frozen in the deep snow. Hence, the name "Starvation Creek".
This trail is one of the most beautiful and peaceful trails around. A various locations the trail is surrounded by heavy timber and at one point the trail opens up into a lovely meadow. Creek crossings are numerous.
Details
Length:
6.5 miles
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Time:
4 - 5 hours
Trailhead Elevation:
9100
Elevation Range:
9100 feet to 10885
Elevation Change:
1785
Season:
Summer to Fall
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Poncha Springs, CO travel south on Hwy 285 for approximately 4.5 miles. Turn right onto County Road 200 and travel south for 2 miles to the trailhead at the Shirley Site. At the trailhead, turn right onto CR 203. Stay on this road for about 3/4 miles, crossing an old stone railroad bridge. After crossing the bridge, the road turns left and continues for about 2.5 miles to the trailhead.
Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Salida. More Visitor Guides are available in Colorado. Click here to view them all!
Chaffee County Central Colorado
Chaffee County
Central ColoradoMore than 100 miles of the Arkansas River and her tributaries flow through the heart of Chaffee County, gracing both Salida and Buena Vista with her beauty and world-renowned whitewater, fly-fishing, scenery and river festivals. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
We also have the following visitor guides in Colorado. Click on any additional guides you would like to receive.
Chaffee County Central Colorado
Chaffee County
Central ColoradoMore than 100 miles of the Arkansas River and her tributaries flow through the heart of Chaffee County, gracing both Salida and Buena Vista with her beauty and world-renowned whitewater, fly-fishing, scenery and river festivals. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Colorado Springs Central Colorado
Colorado Springs
Central ColoradoFind yourself in Colorado Springs at Pikes Peak. We have five historic trains to transport you back to the days of cowboys and gold mining. Endless trails allow you to enjoy the abundant sunshine and spectacular scenery. A family vacation in Colorado Springs is the smart choice – great lodging values, a long list of low-cost or no-cost activities, and adventure around every corner. Order your free guide today. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Grand Lake Rocky Mountain National Park
Grand Lake
Rocky Mountain National ParkWelcome to Grand Lake, the Wild Heart of Colorado's Wilderness. Nestled on the tranquil shores of Colorado's largest natural lake, Grand Lake exudes charm with its picturesque setting framed by majestic mountain peaks. Embraced by the stunning vistas of Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake, Colorado, serves as the perfect hub for outdoor escapades, cherished family moments, and unforgettable mountain experiences
-- Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Northwestern ColoradoWelcome to Colorado’s Great Northwest, Moffat County has nearly 2 million acres of public lands to explore. Experience places like Dinosaur National Monument, the Sand Wash Basin Wild Horse Management Area and free flowing rivers including the mighty Yampa, last of the wild ones! Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Red River Northern New Mexico
Red River
Northern New MexicoRed River, New Mexico! A place where fresh powder winters meet refreshing summer days. Red River offers something for everyone with its convenient scenic location in the heart of Northern New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle. Red River is the place that awakens us each day by the soothing sound of a rushing river and then again each evening as the sun sets over main street. The mountain town of Red River is New Mexico True. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Farmington Northwestern New Mexico
Farmington
Northwestern New MexicoNorthwestern New Mexico is known by many as a magical place. Four Corners and the local Aztec Ruins are considered sacred ground for some and are fascinating to visit. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
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Colorado
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