Bear Creek Trailhead to Little Elk Trailhead

Ouray, CO

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Bear Creek Trailhead to Little Elk Trailhead

A diverse multi-day, high-country hike that spans the entire Uncompahgre Wilderness from southwest to northeast. This hike represents only one of many possibilities presented by the Uncompahgre Wilderness for multi-day backcountry adventures. It traverses the entire area from southwest to northeast, mostly via the spectacular Ridge Stock Driveway. The hike involves some route-finding difficulties, as it begins up a deep canyon near Ouray and travels over high-country ridges, then finally into the more subdued foothills terrain north of Lake City.

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Driving Directions

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Directions to: Bear Creek Trailhead to Little Elk Trailhead

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Trail Statistics & Information

ActivityHiking
Nearby CityOuray
Length36 mi
Skill LevelDifficult
DurationFour- to six-day backpack
SeasonBest June through October, depending on snow pack
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