Bear Creek

About

The Bear Creek Trail in Gunnison County, Colorado, is a National Recreation Trail offering access to the Yellow Jacket Mine. The route spans approximately 5.4 to 6.1 miles with an elevation range between 9,845 and 11,018 feet. Hikers encounter an elevation gain of roughly 1,000 to 1,173 feet. The trail begins at a pullout on Highway 550, just south of the tunnel, with parking available. The initial section features switchbacks that rise steadily and cross a large talus field of unstable rock. After the switchbacks, the trail narrows with steep drop-offs before leveling out as it follows the Bear Creek gorge. The route includes ledges and cliffs, which may require caution for dogs. The trail is open to hiking, biking, horseback riding, and motorcycles year-round. Typical completion times range from 3 to 4 hours. The terrain transitions through open tundra and crosses into the Uncompahgre National Forest boundary before reaching Engineer Pass. The trailhead is accessible from Ouray by traveling south on Highway 550 for two miles.