Spring Creek #2068

The Spring Creek Trail is 6.3 miles long and leads visitors through a scenic canyon in the East Elk region of the Rifle Ranger District. Beginning at the intersection with East Elk Creek, the trail initially travels east for almost four miles, closely following Spring Creek as it flows through open meadows and stands of spruce and aspen forest. Along the way, the trail passes beneath rugged cliff faces and grassy slopes on either side of the canyon. The first half mile of the trail is steep, but visitors are rewarded with views of a waterfall. After the waterfall, the next three and a half miles have a very gentle grade. Four miles from East Elk Creek, the trail turns north and gradually ascends through the drainage, gaining 1000 feet over the final two miles. The trail continues to closely follow Spring Creek, and ends at the intersection with the Boiler Creek Trail. From here, turn left and travel half a mile west to Road 636.   Much of this area was burned by a wildfire in the early 2000s, and numerous snags are still standing on the slopes above the trail. The first two and half miles from East Elk Creek have been cleared and are easy to follow. However, the remainder of the trail is overgrown, and navigation is difficult. The Spring Creek Trail is open to foot and horse travel. View the Recreation Opportunity Guide [http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd603528.pdf] for the Spring Creek Trail and the Map [http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd617729.pdf] for the Spring Creek and East Elk Creek Trails (.pdf documents).