Description

The Van Tuyl Loop is one of the most easily-accessible greenspaces adjacent to the town of Gunnison.

This wide gravel path creates a gorgeous 3-mile loop around Van Tuyl Ranch, with the option to add an out-and-back spur to the banks of the Gunnison River.

The trail can be accessed from the marked trailhead or via several points on the southern edge of the loop.

Many locals will walk directly from their houses to reach the trail. As a hike, this trail is exceedingly easy and mellow, but it still provides a delightful dose of nature.

All manner of birds live along this path, and at certain times of day, you can see other wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and moose.

At points, the Van Tuyl trail comes very close to the rushing Gunnison River, and in the spring, the ranch fields will sometimes flood, turning into a marshy wetland.

Of course, you'll also often spot cattle grazing in these pastures. One of the highlights of the hike is the spur trail that leads to the banks of the river via a long section of elevated boardwalk and some narrow singletrack.

The view from the banks is stupendous, with the river's rushing waters and towering cliffs on the opposite side.

However, according to trail signs, to legally access this section of trail, "all persons 16 and older.

.

.are required to possess a valid Colorado hunting or fishing license or a state wildlife area pass." This stipulation only applies to the spur trail and not to the main Van Tuyl Trail. However you choose to hike the Van Tuyl Loop, you're guaranteed a beautiful and enjoyable hike!