Dark Canyon

The Dark Canyon Trail #830 begins at the trailhead which is part of the Erickson Springs Recreation Area and ends at Horse Ranch Park. The trail follows Anthracite Creek up through the towering rock walls of Dark Canyon. In the early season, waterfalls thunder down from cliffs and canyons high above the trail. After passing through the rocky depths of the canyon, the trail climbs the Devil’s Staircase to emerge on easier terrain. Several more miles of gradual climbing through aspen forests, groves of gambel oak and open parks bring you up to the flanks of the Ruby Range and then on to Horse Ranch Park. The Dark Canyon Trail #830 is popular and well maintained, it is the major route across the southern portion of the Raggeds Wilderness , but it is rocky in the canyon with occasional wet spots. Three narrow foot bridges cross the creek which becomes a raging river in the spring. The trail is good above the Devil’s Staircase, which is a series of switchbacks and not as bad as the name implies. Bands of sheep summer in the upper area. Dark Canyon is typically accessible by early May, but be prepared for ticks and fallen trees blocking the trail.

Geo-Ref Trail Map Geo-Reference Instructions

The Dark Canyon Trailhead is located in the Erickson Springs Recreation Area, adjacent to Erickson Springs Campground. This trailhead accesses Dark Canyon Trail #830 which enters Raggeds Wilderness where Wilderness Regulations apply. The trailhead has hitching racks, hay feeders and a restroom located near the parking lot.