Search routes & places
Dark Canyon Trailhead


Log in and send us updates, images and resources

Dark Canyon Trailhead

Trailhead between Paonia and Crested Butte with access to multiple trails into the Raggeds Wilderness.

The Trailhead is located at the back of the Erickson Springs Campground. The Dark Canyon Trail (USFS #830) follows Anthracite Creek up through Dark Canyon, a major route across the southern portion of the Raggeds Wilderness.  It ties into several other trails so long loops and backpacking trip combinations are possible: Ruby Anthracite #836, Munsey Ruby #831, North Anthracite Trail #R832, Silver Basin #834, Oh-Be-Joyful Pass #835.

Alternate Titles:

Dark Canyon Trail to the Ruby Anthracite Trail Junction (out and back) - 11 miles, 2260' gain

Dark Canyon Munsey Ruby Stock Driveway Loop - 10.6 miles, 3518' gain

Dark Canyon Trail to Horse Ranch Park, 13 miles, 4000' gain

  • Suitable Activities: Backpacking, Hiking
  • Seasons: May, June, July, August, September, October, November
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
    Raggeds Wilderness Area, Paonia Ranger District (GMUG)
  • Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • CoTrex
  • AllTrails
Activities
Trip Reports
Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • Dark Canyon TH - Dark Canyon Tr OB
  • Dark Canyon TH - Dark Canyon Munsey Loop
  • Dark Canyon TH - Dark Canyon Tr One Way
Resources

There are no resources for this route/place. Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.