Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch Trailhead

About

The Silver Creek/Grizzly Gulch Trailhead in Lake City serves as the primary access point for hikes into the Silver Creek and Grizzly Gulch drainages, including routes to Handies Peak. Located at 10,407 feet, the trailhead offers moderate difficulty and typically takes about two hours to traverse, though this refers to the trailhead access or shorter loops rather than the full ascent to major peaks like Handies. The drive from Lake City involves turning right on County Road 30 toward Cinnamon Pass; the first 12 miles are easy dirt roads, followed by a shelf road section that can be rough for 2WD vehicles but generally supports cars with standard clearance. Parking is available on weekends, often requiring drivers to find space along the road. The area is open from September through November, with conditions ranging from dry to potentially snowy terrain at higher elevations. Pets are allowed, and hikers should be prepared for changing weather. Wildlife sightings, including porcupines and moose, have been reported in the vicinity.