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Hikes/United States/Colorado/Elk Mountains
Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
653 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.1 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-5.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Trail 403

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Table of contents

Trail 403 is a fantastic hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will take you uphill for stunning views of the Colorado landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will climb through some steep woodland terrain between Mount Baldy and Gothic Mountain, before traversing the rugged upper portion of the route on the easy to the terminus of the trail. Hikers should take note that this route is not accessible during the winter, as avalanche conditions are prevalent in the area.

Route Description for Trail 403

If the aim of your next adventure is to experience some beautifully scenic alpine views while working your way uphill through the mountains, then Trail 403 just might be the perfect route for you. This hike features gorgeous mountain and valley views, and isn’t overly difficult outside of a few steep climbs, making it a great option for hikers looking to build up their physical fitness.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way to the west and begin climbing up the steep hillside, passing through meadows and intermittent tree cover while taking in the increasing beauty of the scenery behind you. As the trail turns more to the southwest, you will pass through a stretch of forest and follow the trail as it bends to the northwest.

Here, you will exit the tree cover and pass through several meadows, enjoying the beautiful alpine views as you descend to the endpoint of the route near a small backcountry parking area. If you wanted to do this route as a one-way hike, you could park a second car here and make your way down the mountain in that manner. If not, simply retrace your steps uphill and through the forest to relive the beautiful scenery overlooking Gothic Valley on the return leg.

Getting to the Trail 403 Trailhead

The starting point for Trail 403 can be found at the Washington Gulch Campground along FS-317.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    April-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Trail 403 Elevation Graph

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