Dark Canyon Trail Point to Point

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Geological Significance · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Wildlife

This very unique, remote route is a good choice for a wilderness trail run or part of a multi-day backpacking trip. Starting in subalpine forests and meadows, then finishing in a tight, rugged canyon. There is some climbing, but this route loses a lot of elevation if you choose to go from south to north.

This trail starts at the Horse Ranch Park trailhead on the north side of Kebler Pass. From here start along the Dark Canyon Trail #830. After about 8 miles, there will be a junction to the Ruby Anthracite Trail. Stay right on the Dark Canyon Trail and head down the Devils Staircase, which is a long series of switchbacks down to Middle Anthracite Creek. At about 10 miles total there will be another split to the right which would take you to Marble via the West Anthracite Trail stay LEFT here and continue through the spectacular Dark Canyon.

This trail is well signed, but a GPS or the Hiking Project mobile app would be good to have in case you end up off trail in some overgrown segments.

This trail is best taken as a point to point with a car at the Erickson Springs trailhead. While Kebler Pass does get a fair amount of traffic, hitchhiking can be difficult.