Copyright: Unknown Stoney Pass area, looking toward Pole Creek

Excellent views and an excellent assortment of wildflowers can be found in the West Pole Drainage. Few people hike in the West Pole Area. Hiking this trail is basically a cross-country type experience. The trail is well-defined in only a few short segments. The last climb to the Continental Divide is steep. The best bet to reach the Divide is to choose your own route and follow the drainage upward.

Directions from Creede: Travel southwest from Creede on Highway 149 for about 20 miles, to the intersection of Highway 149 and Forest Development Road 520 (Rio Grande Reservoir/Upper Rio Grande Road). Follow Forest Road 520 for approximately 23.5 miles to the Pole Creek Trailhead. Hike approximately 3 miles up Pole Creek Trail (Forest Development Trail 916). The junction with Forest Trail 916 is not distinctive or signed. Proceed across Pole Creek and up the north side of the West Pole Drainage to pick up the trail.

Seasonal Information:
Normally Open: Late June through September .

Lost Trail Creek - Excellent views and good fishing are both possible along this trail. Evidence of recent and historic mining activity is visible near Carson Pass on the Continental Divide.

Pole Creek Trail (Divide Ranger District) - Take the short side trip from the trail to the creek to see a series of small waterfalls, natural arches and crystal clear pools on Pole Creek.

Pole Creek-Cataract Lake (Continental Divide/La Ga - This trail serves as a link between the Lost Trail Creek and Pole Creek drainages. The trail also provides access to the Continental Divide and Cataract Lake.

Stony Pass Road 520 - This is a scenic and remote primitive road that is a popular route between the historic mining towns of Creede and Silverton. Numerous mining claims, mines, and associated structures are found along the route.