Old Car Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Views

This is just a nice easy way to get out if you are in Gunnison and need to stretch your legs. Views of town and campus, plus a glimpse into the vast trail network of Signal Peak.

The parking lot for this hike is right next to the football stadium at Western Colorado University campus. There's a big signboard at the beginning that shows an abundance of trail options in this area. However, if you just want to hike to Old Car, it's just shy of 2 miles round trip and 250 feet of elevation gain. The elevation feels very mild on this route and there are a few different trail options to get to Old Car. You can take the Ridgeline or the Contour trail, and both trails continue further on past Old Car if you're wanting something longer.

This trail offers no shade whatsoever so be mindful of the time you hike. You'll be on a dirt or rock path in a sea of sagebrush. These trails offer great views all around with views overlooking the city of Gunnison, Hartman rocks, W mountain, and Signal Peak.

This is also a frisbee golf area, if that suits your fancy.
Once you get to the Old Car, you can enjoy the views, some water, and decide if you want to keep hiking or head back down to your car.

Sage country with early summer wildflower displays. This is habitat for the endangered Gunnison Sage Grouse, so it's best to keep your dog on a leash in order to avoid disturbing them.