Red Dirt Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The most commonly used section of this trail runs from the intersection with Saddle Trail down to the Red Dirt trailhead. Utilized this way, the trail climbs slightly more steeply than Saddle Trail, before descending all the way down to the trailhead. This trail is more difficult than other trails in the area, with a few rocks breaking up generally smooth terrain to a rooty section through thick tree cover after that. The trail then enters a steep, rocky descent leading to a consistent grade with switchbacks and some loose soil to contend with, and finally a bench cut down to the trailhead.

Just after the trail starts to descend after leaving the Saddle Trail behind, you can take a right to follow this trail up towards the Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary. This is a consistent and challenging climb, with plenty of Aspens, Pine trees, wildflowers, and thick green vegetation along the trail to keep things interesting.

Parts of the trail are a bit chewed up from horses and rains, making it a little less pleasant than it could be. At its terminus, this trail intersects with Swamp Park Trail, and Ditch Creek Trail.