By:
Submission
The Washington Gulch Trail #403 begins a quarter mile north of the Gothic Campground and ends when it intersects the Washington Gulch Road, FSR #811. The heads southeast with a few switchbacks and then parallels Rock Creek for approximately 1.5 miles. It then crosses the creek, turns south, and begins to climb in elevation. It comes to an end at Washington Gulch Road. This is a very scenic trail and makes a great day hike. It is also very popular with mountain bikers and campers.
All roadside vehicle and tent campers are required to camp ONLY in designated sites:
Sites are designated by the presence of a 6in X 6in wooden post with a site number and camping symbol along with a permanent metal fire ring. All sites are first come first serve, if a site is occupied please look for another site.
Fires are only permitted in the established metal fire rings. Extinguish all fires so they are cold to the touch.
Sites are limited to two vehicles only per site.
From Crested Butte, travel approximately 1 mile north on County Road 317 to its intersection with Washington Gulch Road, CR 811. County Road 811 becomes Forest Service Road #811 at the forest boundary. Follow CR 811 for approximately 6 miles to the trail access.
All sites are first come first serve, with a 14 day stay limit.
Our Founding Fathers would be so proud to have this Gulch named for our first president! Top Gulch, 10 out of 10
We went dispersed camping here and it was amazing!! Highly recommend but only if you have 4wheel. One part of the road was still covered in snow and pretty hard to get through but other than that it is an awesome place.
Beautiful spot. Absolutely freezing at night and lots of spooky animal noises = maximum fun!! No fires currently as of the state wide fire ban, but never the less ah may zing
Unbelievable hike, strenuous, adventurous, and yes challenging. Breathtaking views of the mountains, meadows of mountain flowers, streams of ice cold water, crystal blue sky, mushrooms, pine trees everywhere. If you start at the Washington gulch road the hike is roughly 3-4 hours round trip. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
If you start this trail near Gothic it is STRAIGHT UP for what seems like forever. Best cardio trail in the area. Beautiful wildflowers, meadows and vistas. Make sure your bring a lot of water and be in shape for this. Well worth it.
