Ivy Creek A - Level 1

Ivy Creek A follows a forest road along the Ivy Creek drainage in the San Juan Mountains southwest of Creede. The route drops through high country timber, tracking the creek as it loses elevation on its way toward Middle Creek. It is a mellow, well graded road suited to stock vehicles and makes a good warm up run or connector route for a longer day in the Rio Grande National Forest.

Trail Summary

• Location: Rio Grande National Forest, near Creede, Colorado
• Distance: 2.2 miles
• Difficulty: Level 1 - Suitable for high clearance 2WD
• Minimum Elevation: 9,693 ft
• Maximum Elevation: 10,323 ft
• Elevation Gain: 49 ft
• Travel Time: 20 to 30 minutes

Difficulty

Suitable for high clearance 2WD

Stock equipment is sufficient and no special equipment is needed. This is a dirt and rocky road with potential obstacles under 5 inches, such as loose rock, dips, or shallow ruts. Grades are gentle with good traction throughout, and the road stays wide enough for two vehicles to pass in most sections.

Elevation

The track starts near 10,300 feet and steadily loses elevation as it follows the creek downhill, bottoming out around 9,700 feet by the end of the run. The descent is gradual and consistent, with only minor rises along the way, for a net elevation change of roughly 607 feet.

Terrain

The surface is a mix of packed dirt and scattered rock, typical of a maintained forest road. The route winds through mixed conifer stands, staying close to the creek bottom for much of its length. Expect a narrow but manageable two-track with easy sight lines and no significant obstacles.

4WD Experience

A high clearance 4WD vehicle handles this trail without difficulty. Traction is good on the dirt surface and the grades stay gentle, so low range is not needed. This is a comfortable drive for newer off-roaders or as a relaxed cruise between other trails in the area.

Travel Time

Recorded track time for this route was about 15 minutes. A high clearance 4WD vehicle covering the same distance at a relaxed pace, allowing for photo stops and careful driving through the timber, should plan on 20 to 30 minutes.

Highlights

The trail stays close to Ivy Creek for much of its length, running through quiet stands of spruce and fir. The steady downhill grade and creekside setting make for an easy, scenic drive with good shade cover in the warmer months.