Uncompahgre National Forest

The Wetterhorn Trail is a popular and scenic route into one of the more remote portions of the Uncompahgre Wilderness. Except for the first mile, the trail is located above timberline, with spectacular views of the Wetterhorn and Coxcomb Peak areas as well as the rugged upper Cow Creek drainage.

The first 1.5 miles of trail are well maintained and easily traveled. Slide rock in the Wetterhorn Pass area makes the trail difficult for horse use. South of Wetterhorn Pass, the route is marked with cairns; however, a topographic map is suggested. Travel time to Wetterhorn Basin is 4 hours in each direction.

This trail leaves the West Fork Road and follows along open meadows surrounded by spruce-fir forests into a large open basin in the upper West Fork. From this area the trail switches back and climbs steeply to the top of Wetterhorn Pass. Loose talus slide rock has crossed the trail in this section. About 1/3 mile south of the pass is an unmarked junction of the Wetterhorn Trail with the Cow Creek Trail.

Large drifts of snow lasting into mid-summer are common. Thunderstorms in the upper Cow Creek drainage may be sudden and very intense. High open ridges should be avoided during lightning activity.

Wetterhorn Basin is a favorite spot to view alpine plants and wildlife. Sightings of mountain sheep are common. Other alpine animals such as marmots and pikas also live there.

Access: Take Owl Creek Pass-Cimarron Road to Owl Creek Pass. Turn south on West Fork Road No. 860 one mile east of pass. Stay on the main road through the drainage bottom for 5 miles until you reach the end. The last 1.5 miles require a pick-up or other high-clearance vehicle.