The trail has had no major maintenance recently and is poorly marked. Several slide rock areas should be traversed carefully, especially if using pack stock. (The trail is not recommended for horse travel). This route allows opportunities for numerous circuits all over the Wilderness. Major attractions are fishing at Machin Lake, excellent scenery, diverse wildlife and rugged terrain. The trail is closed to motorized traffic.
Directions from Saguache, Colorado: Travel northwest on Colorado Highway 114 for 22.0 miles. Follow Forest Road # 750 west/northwest 18.7 miles over Cochetopa Pass. Take Forest Road # 787 south 16.4 miles back over the Continental Divide to Stonecellar Campground. Follow the jeep road west 6 miles from Stonecellar Campground along the Middle Fork to a corral. The trail leaves down the hill toward the creek and to the west. The trail is closed to motorized traffic. Continue on Middle Fork Trail # 783 to Machin Basin # 784 trail.
Directions: Via Gunnison National Forest
Directions: Via Middle Fork Cutoff Trail #888
Directions: Via Benito Trail #867
Directions: Via Twin Peaks Trail #782
Directions: Via Halfmoon Creek Trail #914
Directions: Via La Garita Stock Driveway #787
Seasonal Information:
Normally Open:
May through September .
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