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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
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.
420 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
21.2 km
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.
5-7h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail is a lengthy adventure in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will take you around the edges of a valley for scenic views. While out hiking the trail, you will leave the town of Crested Butte behind and head to the northwest, enjoying the views of Mount Emmons and other nearby peaks as you loop around the valley and traverse the slopes on either side. While this is a long hike, it can also be broken up into a multi-day adventure with an overnight stay at the Oh Be Joyful Campground.

Route Description for Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail

If you are looking for a long distance hiking route near Crested Butte, Colorado that will allow you to take in the natural beauty of the Slate River Valley and its surrounding mountain peaks, then you will certainly want to explore the terrain along the Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail. Setting out from the parking lot in Crested Butte, you will head east out of town and quickly cross over the banks of the Slate River. Here, you will climb uphill to the north and cross over the highway, before heading to the northwest along the eastern slopes of the Slate River Valley. Take some time here to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks, as well as the snaking banks of the river as it cuts across the valley floor. After reaching the northern terminus of the route, you will follow a wide switchback trail down into the valley, before crossing over Slate River Road and the river itself. Once you are on the opposite bank, you will make your way to the southeast along a route that runs parallel to the river, enjoying the views of Snodgrass Mountain and Crested Butte on the opposite side of the valley as you work your way back into Crested Butte where you began your adventure.

Getting to the Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail can be found at the car park on Elk Avenue in Crested Butte.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Oh Be Joyful Campground

  • When to do:

    April-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail Elevation Graph

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