Hit this Colorado trail for alpine views and wildflower galore

Embrace adventure by exploring the endless beauty of Washington Gulch Trail #403 in the Gunnison National Forest.

Lined in wildflowers, this high-altitude trek delivers a memorable mountain experience for every type of adventurer. Trail 403 via the Washington Gulch Trailhead is a 7.5-mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Crested Butte, Colorado that features rainbow-colored meadows, lush alpine forests, small stream crossings, and spectacular mountain views.

Note: Please check weather conditions, current road conditions, and closures before planning your travels to this destination. High-elevation sites are often inaccessible due to snow, even in the summer months. For current conditions, contact the U.S. Forest Service.

The first mile of this trail is steep, with a total elevation gain of over 2,000 feet. There’s a bit of a break in the middle of the trail before it starts to climb again for a short while. Keep pushing on for beautiful natural scenery through wildflower meadows and lush pines forests.

Wildflowers you’re likely to see on the trail include purple fireweed, larkspur, mule’s ears, Indian paintbrush, silvery lupine, broadleaf arnica, bluebells, and if you’re lucky, a few columbines. For prime-wildflower viewing, plan your visit sometime in early-July to late-August. There is often wildlife seen in this area as well, including deer, marmot, and fox.

The trail has an activity rating of moderate and is best used from March until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail, but must be kept on leash.

If you’re headed to Trail 403 from Crested Butte, travel roughly 1 mile north on County Road 317 to the intersection with Washington Gulch Road, CR 811. Continue on CR 811 for approximately 6 miles to reach the trailhead and a small parking lot on the left-hand side. Here’s a look at the route you’ll want to take.

If you plan to hike this trail, please remember not to pick or step on any of the wildflowers. Leave them unharmed for others to enjoy. Hike with care and always remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles.