Bear Creek National Recreation Trail

Bear Creek National Recreation Trail


	Courtesy of EatStayPlay.com

Bear Creek National Recreation Trail is a particularly unique and stunning trail because it is steep and narrow. For half of the trail's length there are many ledges and cliffs. Portions of the trail also cross unstable rock and talus slopes. Camping is very limited.

The trail was originally constructed in the late 1800's by miners for access into claims along Bear Creek and as an alternate route over Engineer Mountain to avoid paying the toll on the Million Dollar Highway.

When constructed, it was a substantial, well built route hewn out of rock ledges and supported by log and rock cribbing secured to the rocks with rails and iron pins. Many interesting geological structures can be seen along the trail.

This is a 4.2-mile trail that has been rated moderate with light use.

Facilities: There are no facilities available at Bear Creek National Recreation Trail.

Reservations: Reservations are not needed or accepted to use Bear Creek National Recreation Trail.

Best Time To Visit: Bear Creek National Recreation Trail is open summer - fall

Fees: A parking fee may be charged.

Accessibility: This area is not handicap accessible.

Rules: Please do not cut switchbacks or throw rocks.

Directions: To get to Bear Creek National Recreation Trail from Ouray: Take US 550 south for 2 miles. Trail parking is on the east side of US 550 immediately south of the tunnel.

Address

USDA Forest Service

2250 HWY 50

Delta, Colorado 81416

Phone
General: (970) 874-6600

Website

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