Bear Creek Trail - Ouray Hiking

Explore the breathtaking Bear Creek National Recreation Trail, featuring stunning views and historic mine sites:

• Trailhead: Start your adventure 2.5 miles south of Ouray, just off Highway 550.

• Highlights: Enjoy a 4.4-mile round-trip hike to the Grizzly Bear Mine, reaching an elevation of 10,030 feet with an elevation gain of 1,560 feet.

• Journey: Begin with switchbacks through a conifer forest, offering glimpses of Mt. Sneffels and Ouray. Traverse a narrow ledge carved into the cliffside above Bear Creek, witnessing remnants of mining history.

• Destination: Reach the Grizzly Bear Mine, a fascinating turnaround point with mining equipment and a collapsed building.

• Further Exploration: Extend your hike to the Yellow Jacket Mine for a total round trip of 8.0 miles, reaching an elevation of 11,130 feet with an elevation gain of 2,660 feet.

• Scenery: Revel in meadows filled with wildflowers and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

• Return: Follow the same trail back to complete your memorable journey.