Basics
- Location:
- 38 miles southwest of Gunnison
- Setting:
- Mountainous
- Length:
- 12.6 mile roundtrip
- Difficulty:
- Intermediate
- Time:
- 6.5 to 7.5 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 9100 feet
- Elevation Change:
- -1700 feet
- Season:
- June - October
Description
Panoramic views of the Cebolla Creek area are common as the trail wanders through forests and around hills on open side slopes. It is not uncommon to see elk herds in Powderhorn Park in the summer. The old cabin at Robbers Roost was a cow camp built in the 1920's. Fishing can be good in the East Fork of Powderhorn Creek. You can continue from Robbers Roost to connect with other Powderhorn trails.
Park in the designated area on County Road 27, walk southwest across Mineral Creek, and cross the fence line through the gate. Please close all gates you go through along the trail. From this point to the next gate (about 200 yds.), hikers are on private property. Please stay on the trail. The trail continues from the second gate, climbing steadily and .5 mile from the trailhead, it curves to the southwest around a hill on an open side slope. For another 2 miles, the trail meanders through forested and open areas. At 2 1/2 miles, the trail crosses another fence line and climbs up the Wood Gulch drainage to Powderhorn Park. Taking the right fork in the trail at this point takes the hiker north through the park to Robbers Roost where an old cabin can be found. Please do not camp or build fires within 50 ft. of this cabin.
Hazards/Considerations: Be sure to take a map of the area and a compass to aid you in staying on the right path. It is important to be prepared for typical July and August afternoon thunder showers. It is best to get an early start and to avoid ridges and open areas in case of lightning strikes. Be sure to take sunscreen, rain gear, and drinking water. Remember, hiking at high altitudes requires more time and energy. Take your time, enjoy the scenery, and avoid over-exertion. Be sure someone knows where you are going and when you plan to return.
Details
Location:
Setting:
Length:
Difficulty:
Time:
Trailhead Elevation:
Elevation Change:
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Camping Info
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Gunnison go 9 miles west on Hwy. 50, take Hwy. 149 south for 17 miles to County Road 27. Turn left and go 19 miles south to the Powderhorn Park Trailhead.