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The Sutton Mine Trail #197 starts at Camp Bird Road (County Road 361) and leads to the Neosho Mine.
Initially, the trail ascends steep switchbacks for about half a mile before leveling off. The switchbacks pose the greatest challenge during this hike. They eventually lead to the breathtaking Ouray overlook. Keep going, because it gets better!
The trail meanders for approximately 1.3 miles through spruce/fir terrain with occasional aspen, offering scenic vistas of Ouray, the Million Dollar Highway, and the Amphitheater.
After 1.7 miles, you will reach the Bear Creek Overlook, boasting breathtaking views of Bear Creek Falls to the northeast and Abrams Mountain to the south.
From here, it's 0.6 miles to the Neosho Mine. The trail descends through a spruce/fir forest, passing through willows and brush, eventually reaching the Ralston Creek crossing.
Along the way, you will reach the historic "Antique" building. I've glimpsed this structure while driving the Million Dollar Highway, but being there in person was truly remarkable. You will encounter remnants of the old mine, including cables, a collapsed structure, and distant outbuildings.
At the Neosho Mine site: a standing building, a collapsed structure, and an old ore cart on the hillside offer glimpses into the area's history. The trail ends at the old bunkhouse.
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