Elkhorn Creek Trail

Elkhorn Creek is one of the friendlier walks in the Red Feather country — a moderate 4.1 miles that starts and finishes on old ranch two-tracks and saves its prettiest stretch for the middle. You set out from the Elkhorn Creek Trailhead off Boy Scout Road, and for the first mile or so you're following a broad, easy grade through open ponderosa and Douglas fir. Then the roadbed narrows to a footpath and the country opens up: small grassy meadows, aspen catching the light, and those big rounded granite outcroppings that give this corner of the forest its shape. Keep an eye on the carsonite posts — ranch roads split off in a few confusing spots, and it's easy to wander onto one if you're not paying attention.

This is working range, so don't be surprised to share the trail with cattle, and give them room. Water is scarce out here: the one reliable source is Elkhorn Creek itself at about mile 3.2, where a primitive log bridge (no railing) carries you across — the creek is usually low enough to rock-hop if you'd rather. Just past there the trail spills into a wide, expansive meadow before a final gate delivers you to the junction with the Granite Ridge Trail, the end of the line at mile 4.1. It's open year-round and the lot is often reachable in winter, though the rocky tread makes for poor skiing — bring traction and poles instead. Treat the creek water, pack out what you pack in, and enjoy an honest, unhurried day in elk-and-moose country.

Trail Facts

Getting There

From Ted's Place, follow US-287 north 10.5 miles to "The Forks" at Livermore, then turn left onto Red Feather Lakes Road (CR-74E). At mile marker 16.25, turn south (left) onto CR-68C (Boy Scout Road) and drive west past the Boy Scout Ranch about 3.8 miles to the Elkhorn Creek Trailhead on the north (right) side of the road. There are toilets and good stock-trailer parking with pull-throughs. The lot isn't plowed in winter but is often still accessible.

Know Before You Go

• Watch the route-finding. Roughly half the trail follows old ranch roads, and side roads split off in several confusing places — follow the carsonite posts and stay on the actual footpath.
• Cattle country. This is active open range and cattle are often present — give them a wide berth and leave gates as you find them.
• One creek crossing. A primitive log bridge (no railing) spans Elkhorn Creek near mile 3.2; the water is usually low enough to rock-hop, but there's no designated stock crossing and access is poor for horses.
• Carry your water. Water is scarce — the creek at mile 3.2 is the only reliable source, so plan on dry camping unless you're right beside it, and treat anything you draw.
• Hard on stock. Many tight, rocky sections plus no stock crossing make this a difficult ride; weed-free pellets or certified hay are required for the whole trip.
• Bikes are seasonal. Bicycles are prohibited November 1 through June 30 (and always difficult on the rocky tread); e-bikes are never allowed.
• Real wildlife. Elk calve and winter here, and moose, mountain lion, and bobcat all use this country — stay alert and keep dogs on a hand-held leash.