Dry Canyon

Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The quickest access is to hike the 3 miles up Big Elk Creek Trail #097 and turn to the east at the junction sign. Cross Big Elk Creek. This can be dangerous in the spring and early summer with a wide, deep, and swift crossing. There is a creek in "Dry Canyon" that runs until early/mid-summer that you can filter from.

This trail connects Big Elk Creek Trail #097 and Garden Ridge Trail. Turning off of Big Elk Creek Trail #097 at mile 3, you go a short distance and will cross Big Elk Creek (sometimes a river) and have a soft 2 miles followed by a brutal 2.5 miles of climbing with upwards of a 25% grade. The switchbacks at the end of this trail will test your already worn out legs. At the end of this trail, you'll be rewarded with views in every direction.

Stinging nettle can get thick if it hasn't been cut back. The typical pine and quaky Aspens dot the landscape. Thick brush/overgrowth can occur. Black bears have been seen in the area recently (2019) and signs can be seen of moose, elk, deer, and mountain lions.