North Crestone

Managing agency

GMUG NF — Ouray RD

North Crestone is an 11.5-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the Ouray area, managed by the Ouray Ranger District of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest. The route features 2,580 feet of elevation gain, making it a moderately strenuous day hike. The trail takes hikers into the high country of southwestern Colorado, where they can expect mountain scenery typical of the region. As an out-and-back route, hikers will retrace their steps on the return journey, covering the same terrain twice. This trail is suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels who are comfortable with significant elevation gain over the course of the hike. The GMUG National Forest provides access to diverse terrain and alpine environments. North Crestone offers a full-day hiking experience with plenty of elevation change to work through. Before heading out, hikers should check current conditions with the Ouray Ranger District and come prepared for Colorado mountain weather, which can change rapidly at higher elevations.