Hikes/United States/Colorado/Elk Mountains

Upper Upper Loop Trail

Difficulty
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Moderate
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.
3-4.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.2 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.
394 m
User Ratings
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The Upper Upper Loop Trail is a great hiking route outside of Crested Butte Colorado that will take you along the lower slopes of the mountain of the same name for scenic views. While out on the trail, you will traverse the woodlands and meadows along the hillside, before passing by Grant Lake and taking in the scenic views overlooking the town of Crested Butte. Hikers should take note that the parking at the trailhead is limited to about four vehicles, so be sure to arrive early or else you will need to walk from further out.

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Route Description for Upper Upper Loop Trail

If you are based in the town of Crested Butte and are looking for a fun hiking route that isn’t overly challenging, but still provides a great workout and scenic views of the surrounding landscape, then the Upper Upper Loop Trail will be a great option for you to explore the natural beauty of the Elk Mountains.

Setting out from the car park on the side of Hunter Hill Road, you will head to the southeast and traverse the lower slopes of crested Butte Mountain, passing through open meadows and stretches of forest along the way. Although there are some aspens that provide protection from the sun, a good portion of the route is exposed, so make sure to wear sunscreen.

After arriving at the charming shores of Grant Lake, take some time to rest and enjoy the views, before continuing along the trail to the east. Here, you will climb slightly further uphill through the forest, before descending the hillside to the terminus of the route at the edge of Brush Creek Road. From here, you will turn back along the trail to relive the views of Crested Butte and the surrounding valley, before arriving back at the trailhead where you started.

Getting to the Upper Upper Loop Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Upper Upper Loop Trail can be found at the roadside car park along Hunter Hill Road, just northeast of Crested Butte.

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

    Lollipop

Upper Upper Loop Trail Elevation Graph

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