Contact Info
- Phone:
- 719-836-2031
Basics
- Length:
- 5.5 miles
- Difficulty:
- Intermediate
- Time:
- 3.5 - 4.5 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 10000 feet
- Elevation Range:
- 10000 feet to 11600 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 1600 feet
- Season:
- Summer to Fall
Description
A wide timber foot bridge crosses Jefferson Creek
Several gentle switchbacks allow access to the southeast side of a broad forested ridge which is an extension of the Continental Divide.
Lodgepole pine, Bristlecone pines (at the head of Ohler Gulch), and spruce (dominant at the timberline) are found along the trail.
The trail enters the krummholz zone - the transition between forest and tundra.
Water is available at campground pumps in the Jefferson Creek Drainage area. Backcountry water is available.
PARKING IS AVAILABLE AT THE BEAVER CREEK TRAILHEAD
Camping within the Jefferson Creek drainage is limited to campgrounds only. There is a $7.00 per night fee for these areas.
In the spring, snow drifts will still be present above timberline. Use caution.
Details
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Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Turn west on the Jefferson Lake Rd in Jefferson (CR 35) to FDR 37. Continue 5.2 miles to the beaver Ponds PG. Day-use parking is available here.
Turn west on the Jefferson Lake Rd in Jefferson (CR 35) to FDR 37. Continue 4 miles to Lodgepole CG. Near site 11 the trail heads west following Jefferson Creek. This access is recommended only for people camped in campground. NO day-use parking is available here.
The best access point to the Loop Trail for backpackers is at the Jefferson Creek CC. Park in the 'backpacker parking' at entrance of campground. Enter the campground, hike north on the closed road next to the pay station; the road turns into a trail in about 2 miles at a stream crossing.
