Main Elk #2157

The Main Elk trail is 2.5 miles long and connects the Clinetop Trailhead [https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=41127] to the Mansfield Ditch Trail (#2291) [https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=41143]. From the Clinetop side, the first 0.5 miles of trail are relatively flat. This initial section crosses through private land, so please stay in the designated trail corridor. The trail then begins steadily climbing up a ridge, offering visitors outstanding views of Hadley Gulch, the Main Elk Creek valley, and Deep Creek Point. The trail continues to follow the top of the ridge, gradually gaining elevation and winding its way through thick oak brush. At 2.5 miles, visitors will reach the Mansfield Ditch Trail. From here, a left turn will take visitors south to the Forest Boundary, and a right turn leads north toward the Cherry Creek Connector and Clark’s Point. Main Elk Trail is open to foot, horse, and bicycle use.