This trail was the main wagon supply route from Dunton to Rico in the early 1900s. Skiers brought the mail in during the winter. The trail is a pleasant and relatively easy walk from the Meadows to Dunton. The steep portion of the trail occurs the last mile.

At this point, it is possible to walk out to a less steep jeep road by heading south, rather than north, at the west end of the large meadow. (A post is erected at the northwestern end of this meadow and the trail which begins a series of switchbacks shortly, is well traveled and identifiable to the north (right)). To get to the road you travel south, across a small creek and then through a heavily timbered area that has not been cleared of large fallen trees.

The first mile plus, takes the hiker through a meadow area which can be wet during spring and early summer; therefore, trail bikes are discouraged on this portion. The remaining trail passes through generally heavily forested areas of spruce and fir, providing views of the Lone Cone, Dunn, Middle, and Dolores Peaks in the Lizard Head Wilderness Area.

Directions: From Dolores, Colorado, The walk down starts in the area above Dunton, known as the "Meadows." Take Colorado State Hwy 145 north to Forest Service Road 535. Continue beyond the town of Dunton approximately 6.0 miles to Forest Service road 471. Turn west on 471 and proceed about 1.0 mile to the signed trailhead. To cut your walk in half, a marked spur exists another 2.0 miles west on Forest Service Road 471.

Elevation: 10,240 feet

Distance: 4.0 miles

Usage: Light

Difficulty: Easy

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