Trail 409.5

About

Trail 409.5 is a difficult hiking route located near Gunnison on the Western Slope of Colorado, with an elevation of 7,664 feet. The trail covers 2.9 miles and typically takes about two hours to complete. Access begins on Cement Creek Road, just past Pioneer Guest Cabins, where a singletrack trail branches to the left. The route parallels the road for approximately one mile before crossing a creek and joining Walrod Gulch, a doubletrack dirt road. Hikers climb steadily up the gulch, passing the Walrod Gulch Cutoff on the left. The path leads to a small field with a four-way intersection, where hikers turn left onto Heart Attack Hill. A sign marks the Walrod Gulch Trail #412 at this junction, and a shade tree provides a rest spot. The trail continues through a creek drainage, crossing the water multiple times before reaching a Y intersection with Walrod Spur Trail #405.2A. Turning left onto 405.2A leads to the edge of a small meadow. After crossing another stream and climbing through dark timber, hikers join Trail #405. The route features wildflowers and sidehilling sections with views to the north and west. A final turn onto 409.5A completes the hike. Parking is available at the trailhead, and the trail is accessible year-round.