Browns Creek Trail #1429
Browns Creek Trail #1429 is a 6.5-mile nonmotorized trail that offers beautiful scenery with changing vistas and vegetation. The trail follows the stream, and small waterfalls can be found along the way. The lower portion of the trail begins in primarily a ponderosa pine environment and gradually moves into a spruce/fir forest. At higher elevations, the trail travels through pristine meadows that end at Browns Lake.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Accessibility
The restroom at the Browns Creek trailhead is accessible for wheelchairs; however, there is no wheelchair ramp to the toilet building.
General Information
Camping is not permitted at the trailhead in order to prevent erosion of the banks along Little Browns Creek. Campers are encouraged to find camp sites further south on County Road 272.
This is a busy trail during the summer months, so please practice trail courtesy and be respectful towards other users.
The Prospectors TV show has created much interest in Mount Antero; unfortunately, most of Mounts Antero and White have already been claimed. To contact claim owners for permission to dig, you will have to do some research to find their contact information, such as visiting the Bureau of Land Management's Mineral & Land Records System Reports webpage and the Chaffee County Assessor's Office webpage.
If you have more specific prospecting questions, you may contact the Bureau of Land Management office in Cañon City by calling 719-269-8500.
Special use permits are required for all groups of 75 or more persons or commercial activities, including outfitting and guiding. For more information, contact the Salida Ranger District.
No
Motorcycles are not permitted on this trail.
Getting There
Parking
Parking is available across from the trailhead.
Directions
From Highway 285, midway between Poncha Springs and Buena Vista, take County Road 270 west for approximately 1.5 miles to a four-way intersection. From the yield sign, continue traveling west. The road continues as Forest Road 272. Stay on Forest Road 272 for about 2 miles. A sign at the cattle guard will indicate your entrance onto National Forest System lands. Continue traveling west from the boundary sign for 2 miles. At the intersection, turn left and travel south for 1.5 miles to the trailhead.
Additional Information
Operated By
Recreation Opportunities
Day Hikes Info
The Browns Creek Trail is a great day hike, but be prepared with a lunch if you plan to make it to the lake. The trail is a steady climb of 8 miles, and a rest stop along the stream is a must.
Backpacking Info
The Browns Creek Trail offers beautiful scenery with changing vistas and vegetation. The trail follows the stream, and small waterfalls can be found along the way. The lower portion of the trail begins in primarily a ponderosa pine environment and gradually moves into a spruce/fir forest. At higher elevations, the trail travels through pristine meadows that end at Browns Lake.
Horseback Riding Info
The Browns Creek Trail and the Colorado Trail are great horseback trails. The trail to Browns Lake is a steady climb, but, for sure-footed horses, it is considered a moderate ride. The Colorado Trail crosses the Browns Creek Trail and travels north and south. For detailed maps or information, contact the Salida Ranger District by phone or stopping into the office.
The area around Browns Creek and Raspberry Gulch is a popular horse camping location.
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing Info
The Browns Creek area is a wonderful cross-country and snowshoeing area. The terrain is flat and easy to navigate. The Evans-Rush trail was named in 1975, in memory of Art Evans and Keith Rush, local cross-country skiers who perished in an avalanche on Taylor Gulch near Maysville, Colorado. The trail is a great introductory route for beginners.