Elephant Butte Trail

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The trail to the top pf Elephant Butte has been officially opened (or reopened as rumors suggest that the traill has existed for decades). Elephant Butte Trail itself is a 1.2 mile long out and back trail that leads from the Mountain Muhly Trail to the summit of Elephant Butte. The trail passes through Alderfer/Three Sisters Park (Jefferson County Open Space) and Elephant Butte Park (Denver Mountain Parks).

Closest parking is available at the Alderfer/Three Sisters West Trailhead. To access the trail from the parking area, generally head north along Bluebird Meadow Trail, Homestead Trail and Mountain Muhly Trail. Approximately 1.5 miles from the parking area, you'll notice a sign for the Elephant Butte Trail on the left.

Elephant Butte Trail generally heads WSW as it winds it's way to the top of Elephant Butte. Along the way, there are a few spots where the steepness or the rocky footing may lead some runners to rely on their hands for balance. Aside from leading almost entirely uphill, most of the trail offers great footing and is easy to follow. Approximately one mile up the trail, runners will notice damage from the Evergreen Butte Fire (July 2020). Shortly thereafter, the trail switchbacks to the ENE and soon the summit of Elephant Butte is in view.

From Elephant Butte's summit of 8405 feet, runners can see Mount Evans to the west to the plains in the east.