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Some of the best singletrack and views on the Uncompahgre Plateau.


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Map Key

5.6

Miles

9.0

KM

Point to Point

9,205' 2,806 m

High

8,282' 2,524 m

Low

677' 206 m

Up

1,054' 321 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

27%

Max Grade (15°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Views

Description

The West Fork of the Paradox trail has some of the best singletrack and views available on the Uncompahgre Plateau. It would be much more popular if it weren't for a very steep/loose section mid-trail and the level of effort required to get to it.

The trail can be hiked either way, but the steep/loose section is easier to hike down than up.

Start from the Old Paradox Road high on the Plateau off of Divide Road. Park about 1/4 mile west of the start to Spring Creek and then head north on a rough road. Take the road for a couple of miles until you see the trail signs for Dry Creek on the left and Paradox on the right (as of 7/2014 the Paradox sign was missing the name).

From here the trail mostly descends, but be prepared for some short climbs. There are some great Aspen groves and views to the northeast.

Roughly halfway through the Paradox Trail is a very steep and loose section that is quite sketchy. This will take a few minutes to negotiate, but afterwards you have more fun singletrack and numerous aspen groves taking you back to the Upper Spring Creek Trail.

After meeting the Upper Spring Creek Trail you can take it back to Divide Road, follow it downhill to Dented Door, or keep going towards Lower Spring Creek.

Contacts

Shared By:

Tim Judkins

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 1 vote

#5

in Montrose

#16451

Overall
  4.0 from 1 vote
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Trail Rankings

#5

in Montrose

#1,414

in Colorado

#16,451

Overall
2 Views Last Month
406 Since Aug 30, 2017
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Photos

Junction with Upper Spring Creek
Aug 30, 2017 near Montrose, CO
Steep, loose, and nasty.
Aug 30, 2017 near Montrose, CO
Upper Paradox Singletrack
Aug 30, 2017 near Montrose, CO

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