Poplar Gulch - Buena Vista, CO

This trail is best ridden mid-late summer. We came in July and there was still snow at the top. Some fun, flowy sections, but a lot of steep switchbacks.

Poplar Gulch Trail Overview

• Trail Name: Poplar Gulch Trail (#1436)​

• Location: Near Saint Elmo, west of Nathrop and Buena Vista, CO​

• Trail Type: Singletrack​

• Length: 6.1 miles (one-way). Additional Reference: ​AllTrails.com+1Trailforks+1

• Elevation Gain: Approximately 2,204 ft. Additional Reference: ​Trailforks

• Elevation Range: 10,101 ft to 12,093 ft​

• Difficulty: Advanced

• Trail Direction: Bidirectional​

• Permitted Uses: Dirtbike/Moto, Mountain Bike, E-Bike (Class 1), Horseback Riding, Hiking, Trail Running​

• Dogs Allowed: Yes​

• Season: Typically mid-June through early October, depending on snow conditions​

• Land Status: San Isabel National Forest​

Trailhead Access

• Coordinates: 38.705470° N, -106.349840° W​

• Directions: From Buena Vista, head south on US-285 for approximately 8 miles. Turn west onto County Road 162 and drive about 15 miles to the historic town of Saint Elmo. In Saint Elmo, turn right onto Tincup Pass Road, cross the bridge, and then turn left onto County Road 267. The trailhead is located 0.2 miles up Tincup Pass Road.​

• Parking: A small parking area is available near the trailhead.​

• Facilities: No facilities at the trailhead; limited amenities available in Saint Elmo.​