Sunkota Ridge Trail

Sunkota Ridge Trail is an 8.6-mile point-to-point backcountry hike from its junction with Loop Trail to Thomas Divide Trail. It follows the ridge between the Indian Creek drainage and lower Deep Creek. That distance covers Sunkota Ridge itself, not the walk in from Deep Creek or any route back to your car. Allow about six to eight hours for the named trail; that is a planning estimate from the distance and nearly 2,900 feet of climbing.

The lower end starts level through white pine, then climbs into hardwoods. The trail is narrow, with a soft layer of leaves and pine needles underfoot and generally few roots or rocks to work around. Much of the climb comes in the first few miles. The route then drops about three-quarters of a mile into Martin’s Gap, where it meets Martin’s Gap Trail.

Above Martin’s Gap, the grade eases as the trail crosses drier, oak-dominated woods. The upper ridge gives you more chances to look toward the neighboring mountain ranges, and widely spaced oaks signal the approach to Thomas Divide. There isn’t a single named overlook to aim for; the reward is the long change in forest and the quieter ridge walk.

From Deep Creek Trailhead, the common loop approach follows Deep Creek Trail to Indian Creek Trail, then reaches Loop Trail about 1.7 miles from the lot. Turn onto Loop Trail and climb another half-mile to the Sunkota junction. Those roughly 2.2 approach miles are outside the 8.6-mile figure. Sunkota ends at Thomas Divide Trail, not back at the same lot, so arrange a pickup or plan a separate route. Vehicles parked in the park for more than 15 minutes need a parking tag. Pets are not allowed on this trail; service animals are permitted.