What You'll Find on Neversink Trail

Neversink Trail is a moderate out-and-back hike near Gunnison that climbs through aspen groves and subalpine meadows to a ridgeline view of the West Elk Mountains. The trail gains roughly 1,000 feet over about 5 miles one way, making it accessible to most hikers but still rewarding for the effort. You'll walk through shade most of the way, cross several small streams, and emerge into open country where the views open up across the Gunnison Basin.

The trailhead sits at around 9,500 feet, and the ridge you're aiming for tops out near 10,500 feet. That elevation means the trail is typically snow-free from late June through September, though early and late season snow can linger in shaded sections. The aspen corridor makes this a particularly good choice in late September and early October when the trees turn gold, though the high country can be wet and muddy through mid-July.

Key Takeaways

  • Neversink Trail starts at a trailhead about 20 minutes northeast of Gunnison and climbs steadily through aspen forest before opening into meadow and ridge country.
  • The hike is roughly 10 miles round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain, making it a half-day outing for most hikers moving at a moderate pace.
  • Water is available from streams along the lower trail, but the upper meadows and ridge are dry, so carry enough to drink for the second half of the hike.
  • The trail is best hiked from late June through September; snow blocks the upper sections before late June, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August.
  • The ridgeline offers views west toward the West Elk Wilderness and north toward the Maroon Bells, making the final push worth the climb.

Getting to the Trailhead

From downtown Gunnison, take US-50 east toward Montrose for about 2 miles, then turn left (north) onto County Road 12. Follow CR-12 for roughly 18 miles as it climbs into the foothills. The road is paved for the first several miles, then transitions to well-maintained gravel. You'll pass through ranch country and scattered aspen stands before the road narrows and becomes rougher in the final few miles.

The trailhead parking area is on your left as CR-12 approaches a cattle guard and gate. The lot holds about a dozen vehicles and has no facilities. Arrive early on weekends, especially in September and October when the aspen color draws more traffic. In winter, the road is not regularly plowed past the first few miles, so check with the Gunnison National Forest office before attempting the drive after October.

The Lower Trail Through Aspen

The first 2 miles of Neversink Trail stay in shade beneath dense aspen and scattered spruce. The path is well-marked and easy to follow, climbing gradually alongside a small creek that you'll cross several times. The forest floor is soft with duff and moss, and the understory is thick with wildflowers in July and August—Indian paintbrush, columbine, and fireweed are common. This section is the coolest part of the hike and offers the most reliable water sources.

The grade is steady but not steep, and the shade keeps the temperature manageable even on warm days. This is the best section for families with younger hikers or anyone wanting to turn back early without feeling like they've missed the hike. Even stopping at the 2-mile mark gives you a sense of the landscape and a pleasant walk through one of the region's most reliable aspen corridors.

The Meadow and Ridge Section

Around mile 2.5, the forest opens into a series of high meadows dotted with low willows and scattered trees. The trail becomes less distinct here—look for cairns and worn ground rather than a cut path. The meadows are boggy in early summer and early fall after rain, so waterproof boots are worth considering. The grade steepens noticeably in this section, and you'll gain most of the remaining elevation over the next 2 miles.

By mile 4.5, you're approaching the ridgeline, and the trees thin to scattered krummholz and alpine tundra. The final push to the ridge is steep but short, and once you reach the top, the views justify the climb. To the west, the West Elk Wilderness spreads across the horizon with Gothic Mountain and Crested Butte visible on clear days. To the north, the Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak rise above the Gunnison River valley. The ridge itself is exposed to wind, so bring a jacket even on warm days at lower elevations.

Water, Weather, and Seasonal Timing

Reliable water is available from streams in the aspen section and the lower meadows through mile 3. The upper meadows and ridge are dry, so plan to fill your bottles before you leave the forest. A 3-liter capacity is reasonable for this hike; you'll use roughly 1.5 to 2 liters depending on pace and temperature.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common from mid-July through August, particularly between 2 and 5 p.m. Start early and plan to be off the ridge by early afternoon. The ridge is fully exposed, and lightning is a real hazard. In September and October, the weather is more stable, but nights are cold and the first snow can fall without warning. Bring layers regardless of the season.

The trail is typically snow-free from late June through mid-October. Before late June, snow blocks the upper meadows and ridge. After mid-October, snow becomes more frequent and the road to the trailhead may be impassable. The aspen color peaks in the last two weeks of September and the first week of October.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

This is a day hike, so you don't need a tent or sleeping bag, but you do need to plan for the elevation and exposure. Start with a full water bottle or hydration pack, a light snack or lunch, and a jacket. The elevation gain is moderate but steady, so take your time and expect to move slower than you would at lower elevations. A trekking pole or two helps on the steeper sections and reduces impact on your knees on the way down.

Wear sturdy hiking boots rather than trail runners; the meadow sections are muddy and the upper trail is rocky. Sunscreen and a hat are essential—the high elevation means stronger UV exposure, and the ridge offers no shade. Insect repellent is worth bringing in July and August when mosquitoes are active in the meadows. A map and compass or GPS device are good insurance, though the trail is generally well-marked.

Alternatives and Nearby Options

If Neversink Trail feels too long or steep, the lower aspen section alone makes a pleasant 4-mile round trip walk. If you want a longer day, you can continue past the ridge along the ridgeline trail system, though the path becomes less distinct and route-finding becomes more important. The Gunnison National Forest has dozens of other trails in the area; the Cement Creek Trail and Brush Creek Trail offer similar elevation and scenery with different views.

For a shorter outing closer to town, the Hartman Rocks area offers trails with less elevation gain and more open views. For a higher-elevation alpine experience, the trails around Crested Butte and Kebler Pass are 45 minutes to an hour away and offer different terrain and wildflower displays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my dog on Neversink Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Neversink Trail as long as they're under control. The trail is on National Forest land, not in a designated wilderness area, so leashes are not required but are recommended, especially near the ridge where the terrain is exposed and steep. Keep your dog close on the upper sections where the trail is less distinct.

How long does the hike actually take?

Most hikers take 4 to 5 hours round trip, including time at the top. The pace depends on fitness, acclimatization to elevation, and how long you spend at the ridge. Fit hikers moving steadily can do it in 3.5 hours; slower hikers or those taking frequent breaks may take 6 hours or more.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Cell service is spotty and unreliable throughout the hike. Don't count on being able to call for help if something goes wrong. Carry a map and compass, and let someone know your plans before you start.

What's the best time of year to hike this trail?

Late September and early October offer the most reliable weather, the most stable afternoon conditions, and the aspen color. Mid-July through August is busier and more prone to afternoon thunderstorms. June can still have snow on the upper sections, and after mid-October the road to the trailhead becomes unreliable.

Do I need a permit to hike Neversink Trail?

No permit is required for day hiking on Neversink Trail. It's open to the public on National Forest land. If you're planning to camp, you'll need to camp at least 100 feet from water and follow Leave No Trace practices, but overnight use is not common on this trail.