Ruby Gulch Trail

The Ruby Gulch Trail is located in the Arapaho National Forest near Georgetown, Colorado. The trail generally follows an old mining road, and you'll find parking available at the trailhead. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking can be limited.

This trail is generally considered to be of intermediate to difficult difficulty. The initial section is a steep, rocky service road with a consistent 15-20% grade for about the first eight-tenths of a mile, gaining over 500 feet in elevation. This challenging start requires good physical condition and appropriate footwear. While it mellows out later, the overall experience is not ideal for beginners.

The terrain varies significantly. It begins as a steep, rocky service road, often referred to as a 'leg burner'. After this initial climb, it transitions to a narrower, sometimes less apparent dirt trail. You'll encounter numerous stream crossings, particularly along Ruby Creek, which can be shin-deep and fast-moving in mid-June. Sections can be overgrown, and a GPS is helpful for navigation where the trail might disappear.

The Ruby Gulch Trail stands out for its solitude, seeing far less visitation than popular nearby hikes like Butler Gulch. It leads to a spectacular alpine basin encircled by prominent 13,000-foot peaks, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The trail also follows an old mining road, providing historical interest with abandoned mines, and features abundant wildflowers and constant water features from Ruby Creek.

Yes, the Ruby Gulch Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it's located within the Arapaho National Forest, it's important to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

Generally, there are no entrance fees required to access the Arapaho National Forest for day hiking on trails like Ruby Gulch. However, some specific recreational areas or campgrounds within the forest might require fees or permits. Always check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the latest regulations before your visit.

The trail is accessible year-round, but the best time for hiking is typically from late spring through early fall when the snow has melted and wildflowers are abundant. In mid-June, expect shin-deep, fast-moving water at stream crossings. Winter use is primarily for backcountry skiing, requiring significant avalanche awareness due to the challenging conditions.

Given the challenging terrain and stream crossings, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended, especially in early summer. Bring layers of clothing, as weather can change quickly at higher elevations. A GPS device or app is advisable for navigation due to sections where the trail can be less defined. Don't forget plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection.

Yes, Ruby Gulch offers options for dispersed camping with direct access to the hiking trails. As with all dispersed camping in national forests, follow Leave No Trace principles, camp at least 200 feet from water sources and trails, and be aware of any fire restrictions in place.

Initially, the trail passes through dense evergreen forest. As you ascend, views open up, revealing Mount Parnassus around the 1.5-mile mark. The trail leads to a spectacular alpine basin surrounded by peaks over 13,000 feet, including Englemann Peak, Bard Peak, and Mount Parnassus. You'll also see snow-dusted peaks, alpine tundra, and a deep, narrow gorge with cascades and waterfalls, though dense vegetation can sometimes obscure the latter.

The Ruby Gulch Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. While it's possible to extend the hike by bushwhacking further into the basin or attempting more strenuous mountaineering traverses of the surrounding peaks, the main trail itself is not a loop.