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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
546 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
14.6 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.
4-5.5h
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

Rustler’s Gulch Hike

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Rustler’s Gulch Hike is a fantastic adventure near Crested Butte, Colorado that will lead you into the Elk Mountains for some beautiful views. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill alongside the banks of Rustler’s Gulch, taking in the views of the valley, as well as the rugged summits of Mount Bellview and Precarious Peak. The best times to plan this hike are the summer and autumn seasons, when you will be inundated with either beautiful wildflowers or the changing colors of the leaves.

Route Description for Rustler’s Gulch Hike

If you are after an intermediate length trail near Crested Butte that isn’t overly challenging or technical, then you will certainly want to explore the trails along the Rustler’s Gulch Hike. This fantastic route has stunning mountain views and a tranquil valley setting, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Setting out from the trailhead at the junction of Schofield Pass Road and Rustler’s Gulch Road, you will make your way to the northeast along Rustler’s Gulch Road and follow it uphill alongside the stream. Keeping right at the next junction, you will continue along the Rustler’s Gulch Trail as it heads north through a mixture of forests and meadows.

Along this portion of the walk, you will enjoy beautiful views of Mount Bellview to the west and Precarious Peak to the northeast, as you work your way through the valley by keeping tight to the banks of Rustler’s Gulch. Here, the trail will bend to the southeast and bring you closer to Precarious Peak, before arriving at the endpoint of the route. After a quick rest, simply turn back along the trail to make your back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Rustler’s Gulch Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for the Rustler’s Gulch Hike can be found at the junction between Schofield Pass Road and Rustler’s Gulch Road, just 2.7mi northwest of Gothic.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    May-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Rustler’s Gulch Hike Elevation Graph

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