Name: Dry Canyon
Rating: 4.0

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Features River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Need to Know

The quickest access is to run the 3 miles up Big Elk Creek Trail #097 and turn to the east at the junction sign. Cross Big Elk Creek. This can be dangerous in the spring and early summer with a wide, deep, and swift crossing. There is a creek in "Dry Canyon" that runs until early/mid-summer that you can filter from.

Runner Notes

Run during the first 2 miles as much as you can because shortly after that you'll be redlining it on the steep grades and never-ending switchbacks.

Description

This trail connects Big Elk Creek Trail #097 and Garden Ridge Trail. Turning off of Big Elk Creek Trail #097 at mile 3, you go a short distance and will cross Big Elk Creek (sometimes a river) and have a soft 2 miles followed by a brutal 2.5 miles of climbing with upwards of a 25% grade. The switchbacks at the end of this trail will test your already worn out legs. At the end of this trail, you'll be rewarded with views in every direction.

Flora & Fauna

Stinging nettle can get thick if it hasn't been cut back. The typical pine and quaky Aspens dot the landscape. Thick brush/overgrowth can occur. Black bears have been seen in the area recently (2019) and signs can be seen of moose, elk, deer, and mountain lions.