The Judd Falls trail near Crested Butte offers a fantastic hiking experience, especially during autumn when the aspens are in full splendor. The trail is family-friendly, and you’ll often see children enjoying the hike. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash. The trail is accessible from both a lower 2WD trailhead and an upper 4WD trailhead that shaves off about a mile of hiking. The Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory is located nearby, adding an element of scientific interest to your hike.
Be cautious, as rescues are common on this trail, particularly near the cliffs. Gothic Mountain provides stunning views, with amazing wildflowers during the summer season. Enjoy a surprisingly quiet hike, as even on a Saturday in July, you might find yourself alone at the falls. Here’s every thing you need to know about the Judd Falls Trail.
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Judd Falls Trail At A Glance:
- Location: GMUG National Forest
- Trailhead: Copper Creek/Judd Falls
- Elevation Gain: 434 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 2.2 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Range: Elk Mountains
- Nearest Town: Crested Butte, CO
Judd Falls Trail
Plan your visit to Judd Falls with the information below. Start with the trail description, map, and photos. Then, research the trailhead and weather information. Lastly, double check some Leave No Trace and safety reminders to make sure you’re ready to go!
Have a question? Visit the FAQ section below or ask it in a comment at the bottom of the guide.
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Trail Description
If you don’t have 4WD and high clearance, your hike begins from the lower 2WD trailhead. Otherwise you can continue another mile to the upper trailhead.
The road between the trailheads is easy to hike along and follow, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife and wildflowers. Be aware of vehicles driving up behind you and yield to all cars and step to the side of the road while they pass.
After you reach the upper trailhead, pass to the right of a steel gate and a sign that says Judd Falls is ahead. The road will continue but from here on there are no vehicles.
After a few hundred feet, you will come to a signed intersection, with the Judd Trail continuing left. Here the road finally becomes a dirt trail along the hillside. The views of Gothic Mountain across the valley get really spectacular along this section of the trail.
Along the way, you’ll pass the RMBL weather station on your right. There’s a sign that explains the fascinating role this data plays in furthering our understanding of the Rocky Mountains.
After a short switchback, you will near the falls and overlook area. Turn right when you hear the falls to come to the best viewing point. There is a large historic stone bench facing the falls – sitting there will offer you the best viewing of Judd Falls.
The road continues but is closed to public access. Please stay in approved areas to protect access to this spectacular spot.
When you’re finished with the falls, you can turn around and take the same trail back to the trailhead. Safe travels on the trail!
Trail Maps
Topo Map
This CalTopo map shows the entire Judd Falls Trail. Review it carefully before you head out to the trail.
Elevation Profile
This graphic shows the elevation gained as lost along the Judd Falls Trail. It also shows tree cover, slope, and aspect changes along the trail.
Copper Creek/Judd Falls Trailhead
The lower trailhead is officially called the Copper Creek Trailhead, several miles north of Crested Butte. Here are some details to plan your trip.
Directions
📍Location: 8000 Co Rd 317, Crested Butte, CO 81224
From Crested Butte, follow the Gothic Road, FSR #317 for approximately 6 miles to the intersection with FSR #317.3A. There is a parking area at this intersection, two-wheeled drive vehicles will need to park here.
High clearance/4WD vehicles can continue on FSR #317.3A for an additional half mile to the Copper Creek Trailhead.
Amenities
Here are the amenities available at the Copper Creek Trailhead.
Restrooms: YES
Picnic Tables: NO
Drinking Water: NO
Garbage: NO
Camping: NO
Access
The trailhead is only accessible when the snow melts completely, usually between early June and early November (or whenever the first significant snowfall occurs).
The road to the trailhead is a rough dirt road, but most 2WD vehicles can reach the lower trailhead if they go slow and take their time.
Trail Conditions
When planning a hike to Judd Falls, it’s essential to check current trail conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Weather and trail conditions can change rapidly, especially in mountainous regions. Here are some resources and tips for staying informed:
- Gunnison National Forest Website: The official website for the Gunnison National Forest often provides updates on trail conditions, closures, and other important notices.
- Crested Butte Mountain Biking Trail Reports: This site offers up-to-date reports on various trails around Crested Butte, including user-submitted reports on current conditions.
- AllTrails Judd Falls Trail Guide: A comprehensive resource with user reviews and recent reports on trail conditions. I do not recommend relying on their maps as they are often reported to be inaccurate.
- Local Hiking Groups on Facebook: Join groups like “Crested Butte Hiking and Trail Conditions” on Facebook. Members frequently share real-time updates and photos of current trail conditions.
- Reddit: The r/ColoradoHiking subreddit is a useful platform where hikers share recent experiences and trail conditions. Search for recent posts or ask about Judd Falls specifically.
You can also stop by the Crested Butte Visitor Center or the Gunnison National Forest office for the latest information on trail conditions and recommendations from local experts.
Weather
Always check the weather forecast before you head to the trailhead so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly. Check out the full National Weather Service forecast for the Judd Falls trail below.
Additional forecasts are available from Open Snow and Highpoint Wx below.
Leave No Trace
Help keep this area pristine and open to the public by following these simply Leave No Trace practices during your visit to Judd Falls. A little big of effort goes a long way:
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Always take your trash with you. This includes food wrappers, water bottles, and any other waste you generate.
- Stick to Trails: Stay on marked trails to avoid damaging vegetation and causing erosion.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
- Leave What You Find: Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
Safety Tips
When exploring the Judd Falls Trail, it’s important to prioritize safety. Here are a few tips to ensure a safe hiking experience:
- Stay on Marked Trails: Straying from the trail can lead to dangerous situations and harm the environment.
- Hike with a Buddy: It’s always safer to hike with someone else. If you do hike alone, make sure someone knows your itinerary.
- Check the Weather: Weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.
- Bring a Map and Compass: Don’t rely solely on your phone for navigation as service may be unreliable.
- Carry a First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries with a basic first aid kit.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially at higher elevations.
Learn more by reading my comprehensive mountain safety guide, with 9 essential best practices for safe backcountry adventures. Don’t become a statistic!
Camping Nearby
There are plenty of camping options near the Judd Falls Trail ideal for acclimatization before your hike. Here are some of the closest campgrounds and dispersed camping areas I recommend checking out.
- Gothic Road Campground: A small, primitive campground located along Gothic Road, offering basic amenities and close proximity to the trailhead.
- Mt Crested Butte Campground: A small campground in the town of Mt Crested Butte known for stunning wildflowers. Camping is free, first-come, first-serve, but is almost always full.
- Gothic Road Designated Campsites: There are four designated camping sites along Gothic Road, offering a more rustic and secluded camping experience. They are difficult to secure and do have a fee.
- Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area: A larger camping area with 30 reservation-only campsites, located near the scenic Slate River, perfect for those seeking a picturesque setting.
Learn more about camping opportunities near Crested Butte here.
Lodging Nearby
If you prefer a bed over a sleeping bag, there are lots of hotel and motel options in Crested Butte and the surrounding area. I recommend staying at one of these options.
- Nordic Inn, Crested Butte
- Old Town Inn, Crested Butte
- Elevation Hotel & Spa, Mt Crested Butte
- Cristiana Guesthouse, Crested Butte
There are also plenty of airbnbs and other short term rentals available in Crested Butte to rent if you prefer a home and a lot of extra space. This is only a 15-20 minute drive away from the trailhead.
Rules & Regulations
There are no permits or reservations required to hike the Judd Falls Trail. Follow these essential National Forest rules and regulations during your visit to protect the area and preserve public access.
- Stay on Designated Trails: To protect the environment and ensure safety, always stay on marked trails.
- Pack Out All Trash: Carry out all trash, including food scraps, to keep the forest clean and preserve its natural beauty.
- Camp Only in Designated Areas: Use established campsites or areas designated for dispersed camping. Avoid setting up camp near water sources.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and do not feed them. Keep food and trash secured to prevent attracting wildlife.
- Keep Dogs on Leashes: Dogs must be kept on leashes at all times to protect wildlife and other visitors.
- No Campfires Outside Designated Areas: Check current fire regulations and only build fires in designated fire rings or grills.
- Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles, such as minimizing campfire impact, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors.
- Obtain Necessary Permits: If required, obtain permits for backcountry camping or other regulated activities.
- Respect Quiet Hours: Follow quiet hours in campgrounds to ensure a peaceful experience for all visitors.
- Adhere to Seasonal Closures: Be aware of and respect any seasonal trail or area closures for wildlife protection or other reasons.
About Judd Falls
Located in Gunnison National Forest, Judd Falls is a stunning waterfall that offers visitors a serene and picturesque experience. The falls are a popular destination for hikers looking for a moderate trail with rewarding views. Accessible for most of the warmer months, Judd Falls is a must-visit spot for anyone visiting the Crested Butte area.
The trail to Judd Falls offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical significance. As you hike through the abundant aspen groves, the vibrant colors of autumn leaves create a breathtaking canopy overhead. In the spring and summer months, the trail is adorned with a variety of wildflowers, including Columbines, Yellow Daisies, White Lobes, and the striking Indian Paint Brush, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
In addition to hiking, the area around Judd Falls offers various recreational opportunities, including camping, wildlife viewing, and photography. Nearby campgrounds, such as the Gothic Campground, provide a convenient base for exploring the falls and other attractions in the region.
Judd Falls is named after the Judd family, who were among the early settlers in the Crested Butte area. The Judds played a significant role in the development and history of the region. Their contributions to the local community and their pioneering spirit left a lasting legacy, which is commemorated through the naming of Judd Falls.
The Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL) owns significant portions of the land and trail leading to Judd Falls. Founded in 1928, RMBL is dedicated to advancing the understanding of the natural world through research and education. They allow public access to their property, including the trail and the overlook that offers stunning views of Judd Falls, under the condition that visitors adhere to guidelines designed to protect the environment and ongoing research activities. This cooperation between RMBL and the public helps ensure that this beautiful area remains accessible for future generations while supporting important scientific work.
FAQ
Check out my answers to some frequently asked questions about the Judd Falls Trail. If I haven’t answered your question, leave a comment below and I’ll get back to you with an answer as soon as possible.
Q: How long is the Judd Falls Trail?
A: The Judd Falls Trail is approximately 2 miles round-trip. It is a relatively short hike, making it suitable for hikers of all levels, including families with children.
Q: Can you drive to Judd Falls?
A: Yes, you can drive to the Judd Falls Trailhead. From Crested Butte, take Gothic Road (County Road 317) north for about 6 miles until you reach the trailhead parking area. The road is typically passable by most vehicles, but it can be rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, especially during or after inclement weather.
Q: What should I bring on the hike?
A: Essential items to bring include:
- Water (at least 1-2 liters per person)
- Snacks or a light lunch
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
- A rain jacket or windbreaker (weather can change quickly)
- A map or GPS device
- A small first aid kit
- A camera or smartphone for photos
- Trekking poles (optional but helpful)
Q: What is the best time of year to hike Judd Falls?
A: The best time to hike Judd Falls is from late spring to early fall (June through October). During this period, the trail is generally free of snow, and the weather is favorable. The wildflowers bloom in late June to early July, offering a spectacular display. Fall colors are also a highlight in late September to early October.
Q: How far is Judd Falls from Crested Butte?
A: Judd Falls is located about 6 miles north of Crested Butte. The drive takes roughly 15-20 minutes via Gothic Road (County Road 317).
Q: Are there restrooms at the trailhead or along the trail?
A: There are no restrooms along the trail itself, but there is a restroom facility available at the Judd Falls Trailhead. It is advisable to use the restroom before starting your hike, as there are no other facilities along the way.
Q: Can I camp near Judd Falls?
A: Yes, there are several camping options near Judd Falls. Dispersed camping is allowed in the surrounding Gunnison National Forest, but be sure to camp at least 100 feet away from water sources and trails. Additionally, there are established campgrounds nearby, such as the Gothic Campground, which offers basic amenities.
Q: Are dogs allowed on the trail?
A: Yes, dogs are allowed on the Judd Falls Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and other hikers. Be sure to pack out all dog waste to keep the trail clean.
Q: Is the Judd Falls Trail family-friendly?
A: Yes, the Judd Falls Trail is family-friendly. The short distance and moderate elevation gain make it suitable for children and less experienced hikers. The scenic views and the waterfall itself are enjoyable for all ages.
Q: How much water is necessary for the hike?
A: It is recommended to bring at least 1-2 liters of water per person for the Judd Falls hike. Even though the trail is short, it’s important to stay hydrated, especially at higher elevations and during warm weather.
Additional Resources
Continue your research with these additional websites and resources with more information and advice.
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