San Isabel National Forest
Browns Creek Trail #1429

This moderately difficult, 11 mile long trail sees its heaviest use in summer and early fall.

Elevations:

• Trail beginning: 8,970'
• High Point: 11,286'
• Trail ending: 11,286'

Access: Halfway between Buena Vista and Poncha Springs, go west 1.5 miles on County Road 270 to a 4-way intersection. Stay straight ahead (but the road becomes CR 272) for another 2 miles. You'll cross a cattle guard into the National Forest. Look for the next intersection, turn left on CR 272 and head south another 1.5 miles to the Browns Creek Trailhead.

Notes: This trail is very popular among the horseback riding set (and motorcycles are not allowed on the trail). The trail follows Browns Creek uphill, past several small waterfalls and through deep forest and open parks as it works its way up to Browns Lake, in the valley between Mt. Antero and Tabeguache Peak.

USGS Maps: Mt. Antero