Skeleton Gulch Trail

Skeleton Gulch Trail is a 12.4-mile out-and-back from Colorado River Trailhead to a single backcountry campsite in Skeleton Gulch, about 6.2 miles each way. The route follows Colorado River Trail through Lulu City, then continues along the Thunder Pass and Grand Ditch corridor before turning up the gulch to the creek-side site. It is a remote, high-elevation hike with a long approach; I’d plan it as an overnight trip unless you’re ready for a very full day.

The trail starts broad and fairly gentle, then makes a short steep climb and switchback before dropping through woods and small streams. Around 0.9 mile it reaches the Colorado River. Farther on, the route opens into marshy meadows, crosses Crater Creek, and passes the Shipler cabin remains before Lulu City. The last mile or so rises toward the old settlement.

Lulu City was a short-lived silver-mining town. By 1881 it had forty cabins and several businesses; it was abandoned by 1885, apart from Joe Shipler, who kept mining for years. Today the meadow holds foundations and scattered cabin logs, not a restored town. It’s a worthwhile pause on a hike whose real destination is still ahead.

From Lulu City, continue through the Thunder Pass and Grand Ditch corridor to the Skeleton Gulch trail. The campsite is about 1.2 miles above the ditch, in a rocky hollow beside a creek at roughly 10,600 feet. A wooden sign points to the site, and red arrowheads may mark trees along the way.

The site has one campsite and no privy. Creek water is available but must be treated, and campfires are prohibited. Overnight camping requires a wilderness permit and a hard-sided bear-resistant food canister. Pets are prohibited on park trails.