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Teocalli Ridge Loop

Crested Butte

Salida

A scenic loop route on the Crested Butte classic Teocalli Ridge.

Trail Running Difficult

Distance
19 km
Ascent
730 m
Descent
730 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
2.8 km
High Point
3.4 km
Gradient
Teocalli Ridge Loop Map

This delightful route up and down Teocalli Ridge banishes the drudgery of the out-and-back with a pleasant loop-style route. In order to make this loop a reality, you’ll have to begin by running up some doubletrack road. Don't worry: after a couple of miles or so it switches to delectable singletrack for the remainder of the route. Along the way up the doubletrack, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the Brush Creek drainage.

Description

The start of the singletrack signals the beginning of the main steep ascent on this route. The singletrack climbs steeply through a beautiful field of wildflowers, before cutting across the ridge and ascending across the slope to the high point of the route.

A breathtaking view of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness greets runners at the high point of the route. Due to its north/northeast location in the Crested Butte trail network, this is one of the very best views of the Maroon Bells area available. Take a few minutes (or longer) to soak in the view and enjoy a granola bar or a sandwhich—you've earned it!

After all the work to get to the top, it’s time to go down. The initial portion of the descent is down a steep, rooty, rutted portion of singletrack. After about 1/3 of the descent trail eventually switches to a mellower grade on a newer reroute. From here, the trail switchbacks back and forth down the mountainside beneath the deep forest canopy. Keep your eyes peeled for the one lookout option during the descent.

Once back at your car, look up at the mountainside and consider the loop you just conquered. Yeah, that feeling of accomplishment is well-deserved!

Difficulty

Difficult

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between July and October

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area