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Wheeler Geologic Area Trail

Name: Wheeler Geologic Area Trail
Rating: 4.50

Type: Trail

Length: 8.45 Miles

Elevation Gain: 3100 Feet

Cost: Free

Rating:

(4.50)1

Difficulty: 4stars

(4.00)

Solitude:

(4.50)

ADA Accessible: No

Bikes Allowed: N/A

Dogs Allowed: Yes

Interpretive Guide: No

City: Creede

County: Mineral

More Information: More Info

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Map

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Photos

There is an old structure along the loop that serves as a shelter. (Photo by Blaze)

The loop around the Wheeler Geologic Area has some nice views. (Photo by Blaze)

There is a small area to camp right in front of the Geologic Area that has an incredible view. (Photo by Blaze)

There is a creek crossing (good place to filter water) where the La Garita Wilderness begins (~2 miles in from the trailhead). (Photo by Blaze)

Beautiful area filled with spires, hoodoos, and other interesting formations. (Photo by Blaze)

Log Entries

Beautiful Remote Spot
By Blaze on 6/7/2022
Rating:

Difficulty:

Solitude:

Distance: 19.75 Miles Duration: N/A

My wife, son and I did a 2-day, 1 night backpacking trip to the Wheeler Geologic Area. My son was carrying about 30 lbs in his pack and I was carrying about 40 lbs. The trail has several long up and downs, both of which can be demanding physically at this elevation. We camped at the base of Wheeler Monument, which provided a phenomenal view. On Day 2, we hiked up, over, and around on the Wheeler Loop (~3.3 miles), then broke camp and headed back (8.25 miles) to our start point at Hanson's Mill CG. The trail is well-marked and maintained, although we had lots of blowdowns that we had to contend with. There are a few good water sources along the way, including one large creek ( which has to be crossed by stepping on rocks).

This hike was hard, mostly because of the weight we were carrying, but the destination is absolutely beautiful and worth the effort.