Green's Creek

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Much of the trail has a typical mountain trail surface, although sometimes it can be quite rocky or rooty. There are some quite steep, but usually short climbs mixed into the gradual ascent.

For trail runners who like to bring a filter to "drink-on-demand," there will be plentiful access, so you can potentially leave the handheld or other water system behind.

Mountain bikers usually shuttle to Monarch Pass, ride Monarch Crest, and then drop down Greens Creek for a shorter ride. Hikers and runners usually start lower at the TH on Greens Creek and go up the canyon and back. The GPS Tracking consensus seems to be that it is 6.8 miles to the shelter by the junction of the Continental Divide Trail.

This is a challenging run for many, due to the total ascent, the elevation, and the care you must take with roots and rocks. However, the running is often smooth and flowing, and seasoned mountain trail runners will have no problems.

The trail ascends fairly consistently, taking in lots of aspens and a few more open views as you get higher. Numerous creek access points along the way and many smaller streams intersecting the trail make for a pleasant experience and can provide extra water if needed. There are often lots of flowers that fade, of course, as the Summer progresses.

Be very wary of our wheeled-friends who very often use this trail at excessive speeds. Take care of yourself, but try to help educate all users to the fact that trails are shared and pedestrians are not supposed to always be jumping out of the way. The local FS signs you see at many trailheads are great, and there is one at the TH here too.