State: Colorado
Location: Gunnison National Forest
Length, One-Way: 5 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 9960 feet
Maximum Elevation: 12040 feet
Elevation Change: 2080 feet
Best Season: Summer, Fall
Difficulty: Difficult
Usage: Moderate
Trail Information
The Browns Pass Trail leads south away from Texas Creek and climbs to Browns Pass. From Browns Pass, the trail descends into the North Fork Drainage. On the south side of Browns Pass, the trail junctions with Hartenstein Trail and the Mount Yale Trail. Most people who use the Browns Pass Trail start from the Denny Creek Trailhead on Cottonwood Pass Road. Since most people start this hike from the Denny Creek Trailhead, the Texas Creek access is a good place to start is you are in the mood for a little solitude.
Although it seems like a gradual ascent from Texas Creek, it is actually harder than it would seem so be prepared. The views from the Browns Pass Trail are simply amazing.
Some sections of the Browns Pass Trail follow the same route as small stream and it can be very wet. If you’re hiking in wet weather, be prepared for a slick trail.
There are dispersed camping sites on the south side of the pass. So use existing sites to minimize further damage on this heavily used portion of the wilderness. There are also dispersed camping sites at the junction of Browns Pass Trail and Texas Creek Trail.
Caution: Don’t camp in Browns Cabin. It has been recognized as harboring the deadly hantavirus.
Directions
From Gunnison to Texas Creek:
Drive north on Highway 135 to Taylor Canyon Road. Take Taylor Canyon Road north to Taylor River Road. Go north on Taylor River Road to Texas Creek Road (Forest Road 755). Turn right on to FR755 and drive to the wilderness boundary. Hike on Texas Creek Trail (#416) for about five miles to the intersection with Browns Pass Trail. From Cottonwood Pass to Denny Creek
Trailhead:
Drive seven and a half miles east from the top of Cottonwood Pass to reach the Denny Creek Trailhead. The Browns Pass Trail heads north from the trailhead. This trailhead is usually crowded.
