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The Dark Canyon Trailhead is located in the Erickson Springs Recreation Area, adjacent to Erickson Springs Campground. This trailhead accesses Dark Canyon Trail #830 which enters Raggeds Wilderness where Wilderness Regulations apply. The trailhead has hitching racks, hay feeders and a restroom located near the parking lot.
From Paonia: Travel northeast on Highway 133 for approximately 15 miles to County Road 12, Kebler Pass Road. Turn onto CR 12 and continue east for approximately 5.5 miles to the intersection with the Erickson Springs Campground Road, just after crossing the Anthracite Creek Bridge. This road is for Erickson Springs Recreation Area that includes the Campground, Picnic Site and the Dark Canyon Trailhead. Continue to the end of the road for the Trailhead.
This is one of the most scenic trails I've done. Almost the entire hike is adjacent to the creek, so the calming sound of water is ever-present. Lots of roots and rocks as it should be in a wilderness area, so watch your step. Pretty easy hike unless you're not acclimated to the elevation. It's around 7800-8000'.
