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Details

Fall Hiking · Durango, CO

Elbert Creek trailhead

moderate
Directions

Before you go

Live · nearest station Durango, 22 mi
Good to go

Good window today. Daylight to 8:11 pm.

93°

Sunny

Feels like 93°

Storm chance

1% afternoon

Wind

5 mph SSW

UV index

7.8 high

Sun window

6:22 am to 8:11 pm

Distance

Elevation gain

High point

8,793ft

Season

Sep - Nov

About

The Elbert Creek trailhead near Durango offers a moderate fall hike starting above 8,500 feet. The route climbs approximately 4,000 feet over roughly 10 miles to reach Purgatory Cliffs and the Needles overlook. The trail passes through aspen groves, providing clear views of changing foliage in September through November. Hikers can complete the out-and-back journey in about two hours or extend the trip to Castle Rock. Parking and restrooms are available at the trailhead, and pets are permitted. The path is generally easy to follow with visible terrain features like rock gardens.

Trail profile

Elevation profile not available yet

Gain

Avg grade

Steepest

High point

8,793 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Restrooms available

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

No waypoints mapped for this trail yet.

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Within 30 miles

Nearby spots