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    Dark Canyon Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    32-45.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    21.2 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    10,399 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Dark Canyon Trail is a rough and rugged journey through the Elk Mountains of Colorado that is only suitable for very experienced hikers. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through the canyon alongside the waters of Anthracite Creek, working your way through the rugged terrain of the mountains while enjoying wonderfully scenic views of the surrounding peaks. As this is a one-way trail, you will need to arrange a pick up at the endpoint of the route, or else you will need to back track the entire distance to return to your vehicle.

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    Route Description for Dark Canyon Trail

    For those intrepid adventurers that are in search of a lengthy and challenging route through the Elk Mountains, the Dark Canyon Trail is the perfect route to experience the rugged landscape of Colorado. Dramatic mountain peaks, deep valleys, and countless streams await on this fun backcountry adventure. Be sure to wear long pants to combat the overgrown nature of the trail, and remember to bring bear spray.

    Setting out from the trailhead at the Erickson Springs Campground, you will make your way to the east alongside Anthracite Creek to begin following it uphill through the canyon. Here, you will pass through stretches of woodland terrain, rock-strewn ground, and sloping hillsides, as you continue to steadily gain elevation.

    After the trail turns to the southeast and you cross over the waters of Anthracite Creek, the route will begin to climb more sharply uphill along a switchback path known as the Devil’s Stairway. From here, the route will turn more directly to the south and take you across the rugged terrain of several gullies, where you will cross over countless creeks, including Silver Creek and Sardine Creek. Keeping to the south, you will begin to descend the mountainside and work your way through the forest, passing by several small ponds to arrive at the endpoint of the trail.

    Getting to the Dark Canyon Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Dark Canyon Trail can be found at the Erickson Springs Campground.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      March-November

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      One Way

    Dark Canyon Trail Elevation Graph

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    Dark Canyon Trail Reviews

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