Ouray, Colorado

Grey Copper Trail


This hike is quite different from the Blue Lakes Pass Hike. It’s easier to get to and doesn’t reach such higher altitudes. You’ll find less bare rock and more trees and shrubs. But don’t worry, it’s still a fantastic hike with some challenging trail sections, lots of wildflowers, amazing views, and abandoned mines.

Getting to the hike is much simpler (no need for a four-wheel drive to start!). It’s 9.3 km (5.8 miles) round trip with an elevation gain of 622 m (2,047 ft). You can park by the highway, but you’ll need to walk a bit to the trailhead. I accidentally missed the trailhead on my first pass - the sign was almost completely hidden by the plants. The AllTrails app helped me find it, and I was on my way.

The trail goes under a red mountain (lots of iron ore) and then climbs out of a valley with a fantastic view of water cascading down the other side. I noticed someone in the area has a sense of humour (check out the pictures), at least I hope it was meant to be funny.

As the trail climbs into an open area near the top, it passes a cool old mine where the creek and rocks are very red, just like the peaks around the valley. Near the top of the trail, you’ll come across some dirt roads. I also noticed that someone had built a home just above the old mine (no trespassing signs, so no worries).

Overall, it was a great day and a wonderful peaceful nature experience!

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SHORT VIDEO CLIPS

Small stream beside trail - no sound

PHOTO SHOWCASE
  • click on any panoramic image for a larger view
  • click on any thumbnail image for a larger view/slideshow
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2407120008P - The trail just as it climbs up out of Grey Copper Gulch
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2407120024P - The trail just past a mining area with Red Mountain No 1 shoing to the right
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2407120027P - Looking back down the valley the trail comes up with Red Mountain No 1 on the left and my pack in the foreground (a quirky traditional photo)
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2407120032P - The trail merges with a dirt road near the top of the hike

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James Hunkins

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