The Big Blue Trail is a major access route to the Uncompahgre Wilderness. It begins one half mile south of Big Blue Campground at approximately 9,670 feet. The trail follows Big Blue Creek for eleven miles through Engelmann spruce forest and parks to an approximate elevation of 11,440 feet. The trail splits at this point with the left fork continuing as Big Blue Trail. It leads one and a half more miles to end at the intersections with Ridge Stock Driveway, 233. Big Blue Trail offers spectacular views of peaks over 13,000 feet. The fishing in Big Blue Creek and Slide Lake is good.

Directions: From Lake City, Go north toward Gunnison on Hwy 149 about 10 miles to the Alpine Forest Access Road. Take that road about 5 miles past the Alpine Plateau Road to Big Blue Campground (approximately 9 miles from the Highway). The trail begins about 1.2 miles south of the campground.

Elevation: 9,700 feet

Elevation Gain: 2,660 feet

Distance: 12.0 miles

Usage: Heavy in Summer

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

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