Gold Belt Trail (Old Horsethief)

About

The Gold Belt Trail, also called Old Horsethief, is a 5.1-mile out-and-back hike just outside Ouray on the Western Slope. It gains about 2,800 feet to a small summit at 10,387 feet, offering views down to the town and the Uncompahgre River Valley. The trail begins at a small, easy-to-miss trailhead off Highway 550. Parking is limited but rarely an issue because the trail is unlikely to be crowded. The route involves a steady climb through forested terrain and private property. Hikers should stay on the marked route to respect land boundaries. A notable section called The Blowout traverses a steep, crumbly talus slope. The trail crosses a few roads at obvious, well-signed junctions. It is considered difficult due to the steep incline and uneven terrain. The hike typically takes about three hours. At the summit, you can continue off-trail across the ridge to the official high point of Gold Hill or connect with the Bridge of Heaven Trail.