Horsethief Trail

About

The Horsethief Trail is a strenuous, 12.3-mile hiking route located near Ouray, Colorado, on the Western Slope. Starting from the Dexter Creek Trailhead north of town, the trail ascends to a high elevation of 12,673 feet with approximately 3,000 feet of vertical gain. The route is classified as difficult or black diamond and typically requires about eight hours to complete. Much of the trail travels above treeline along a narrow ridge, offering panoramic views of the Cimarron and Sneffels Ranges. The trailhead is accessible via a gravel road off Highway 550, though four-wheel drive vehicles are often required to cross Dexter Creek and navigate the final stretch of rough road. Hikers should plan for afternoon thunderstorms at these altitudes and be aware of potential altitude sickness. Water is available from Cascade Creek, and the trail features dense mixed forests of aspens and evergreens before opening to alpine meadows.