State: Colorado
Location: Pike & San Isabel National Forests
Length, One-Way: 8 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 10000 feet
Maximum Elevation: 11412 feet
Best Season: Summer, Fall
Difficulty: Difficult
Usage: Moderate
Large gold nugget
Trail Information
Beginning at the southern end of the Gold Dust Trail, the route is steep for the first mile. After reaching an elevation of 10,400 feet, the trail continues to climb, but now less steeply than before. The trail then descends into South Tarryall Creek drainage. The Gold Dust Trail crosses this creek and 2 others before reaching County Road 50 and Gold Dust Trailhead. From the trailhead, the path ascends and crosses Tarryall Creek and a four-wheel drive road. After crossing the road the trail becomes Old Boreas Wagon Road and continues to ascend to Boreas Pass Road and an elevation of 11,412 feet.
Much of the Gold Dust Trail above County Road 50 generally follows an old flume which diverted water from North Tarryall Creek and its tributaries to mining operations located in the upper Tarryall Drainage.
After snow begins to fall, it is common to see snowshoers and backcountry skiers along the Gold Dust Trail.
Directions
The Gold Dust Trail begins off the Church Camp Road in the town of Como. The trailhead is approximately 5.5 miles from US Highway 285. There is a wide spot for parking in the road approximately 0.3 miles past the trailhead. There is also access along County Road 50, approximately 1.5
