Pike National Forest
Rich Creek Trail #616

This moderately difficult, 8 mile long trail leads into the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness. It sees most of its traffic in summer, fall and winter.

Elevations:

• Trail beginning: 10,000'
• High Point: 12,000'
• Trail ending: 12,000'

Access: Northwest of Antero Reservoir and just south of where US 285 crosses the South Platte, turn west on County Road 22 (Weston Pass Road). About 9 miles in, at the forest boundary, is the trailhead for Rich Creek.

Notes: This area is not very rugged and there's lots of relatively easy side trails. Cross-country travel (off the trails) isn't hard, the fishing is good, the peaks are relatively easy. You could follow Rich Creek Trail into Buffalo Meadows and come back out on the Rough and Tumbling Creek Trail (an 11 mile loop). Water is available at Weston Pass Campground or you can enjoy backcountry water all along Rich Creek.

USGS Maps: South Peak, Jones Hill, Marmot Peak