Dexter Creek Trail

Managing agency

USFS Ouray Ranger District

Dexter Creek Trail is a 4.5-mile out-and-back hike in the USFS Ouray Ranger District near Ouray, Colorado. The trail gains 2,557 feet of elevation, making it a moderately strenuous option for hikers seeking significant vertical relief in the San Juan Mountains region. This out-and-back route follows Dexter Creek drainage, offering access to alpine terrain characteristic of the Ouray area. The steep elevation gain means hikers should be prepared for challenging ascent, particularly in the upper sections. The trail is managed by the USFS Ouray Ranger District, which maintains access through National Forest lands. Ideal for hikers with solid fitness levels and high-altitude experience, Dexter Creek Trail delivers substantial elevation gain over a relatively compact distance. Summer and early fall typically provide the best hiking conditions, though snow can linger at higher elevations into early summer. Hikers should verify current conditions with the Ouray Ranger District before heading out, as weather in the San Juan Mountains can change rapidly.