Porphyry Gulch

Total Miles
2.6

Technical Rating

4

Moderate

Best Time

Summer, Fall

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

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Porphyry Gulch
5

Trail Overview

After completing this short trail, you will arrive at a beautiful spot with mountain lakes and waterfalls. If you're in an unlicensed vehicle, you may have trouble finding room to stage at the trailhead. Some drivers head in through the entrance to Black Bear, but the cut-over to this trail is unmarked and crosses private property. It could close without notice.

Photos of Porphyry Gulch

Porphyry Gulch
Porphyry Gulch

Difficulty

Mostly easy except for one section of high, narrow shelf road that may intimidate novice drivers. Hike if you don't feel comfortable.

Technical Rating

4

Status Reports

Greg Regier
Aug 13, 2023
4x4
Open
Normal
Michael Gray
Jul 31, 2023
4x4
Open
Normal
Josh Spurlock
Jul 09, 2023
4x4
Obstructed
Deep Snow

Access Description

Head south from Ouray on U.S. 550 about 13.5 miles. Turn right on F.S. 822 about a half mile after milepost 80. From Silverton, drive north on 550 about 9 miles.

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