Colorado Gulch West Road (1.5 miles, 859 feet, L-11%, U-20%, M-23%):  (accessed off Croy Canyon road) This is a short ride with a .5 mile steep upper leg capped by a 23% crux.  Ride down Colorado Gulch past the abandoned Snoose Mine, or put on your hiking shoes and traverse the headwall over Peak. 7158 to the Star Gulch saddle.

Colorado Gulch Road (2.4 miles, 1003 feet, l-7%, U-16%):  The access (Colorado Gulch Rd. off of Broadford Rd.) is often washed out in the spring, but you can still wade to the bridge and cross the Big Wood (beware of swift currents).  Once you cross the first fence line you will be on BLM lands.  It is possible to make steep ascents of Della Mtn. by climbing the ridges that face the Big Wood River.  The Snoose Mine, and several others, operated in the canyon through the mid 1940s.  Explore at your own risk!  Hikers can make any number of loops including an off-trail traverse over Pk. 7158 with stunning views of the south valley.

South Valley Dirt Roads:  Prior to the construction of the new trails in Croy Canyon, mountain bikers pedaled up and down the local mining roads which follow a pattern of starting on a gentle 5-6% grade and then steepening rapidly into a very challenging ride.  I have provided grade information for the lower leg (L), upper leg (U), and max pitch (M) of each road.  For example:  (L-5%, U-13%, M-19%).  For comparison, the Galena Summit grade is 5%.  These mining roads provide longer and steeper climbs than offered by the new trails and often pass through interesting mining history along the way.  Consider carrying hiking shoes in a small day-pack to access some great off-trail ridgeline hikes.

For more detailed descriptions, topo maps, and information on the history, geology, and wildflowers of the Wood River Valley pick up a copy of Exploring Sun Valley online or find it at one of several local shops.

Near summit of Colorado Gulch Road