This is an awesome trail in the backcountry with great singletrack that will climb over 2,000 feet in elevation, topping off above treeline at 11,000 feet. Good route finding skills are a must and I would recommend using the attached GPS data if you can (except in one spot as noted below).
For the first 5.4 miles, type in "Gilsonite Trail" and follow that route. After encountering the road (FDR 123), follow it for a short distance and the trail will appear again on the right. This trail is rocky and a little overgrown and you will cross a creek at least once. After crossing the creek you will follow the creek on the lefthand side and then look for an overgrown bridge (hidden by a spruce tree). At 6.5 miles, a meadow will appear and you turn left on a doubletrack and then climb a slight hill. On the right will be a fire-service road, take a deep breath, there is a lot of climbing head. Take that fire-service road up for approximately 2.5 miles (don't follow the trail to the left at 3/4 miles marked "Bowen Lake" and shown on the attached map, this trail is not maintained and is full of downed trees). The fire road will climb through several switchbacks (at least 5) and after it straightens out, you will cross a trail (approximately 10,500'), take it to the right (you can follow the gps data on the map again at this point) and continue to climb till you top out on the ridge. The climbing portion is finally over! Go right on Wolverine Trail and follow the top of the ridge. The views open up at this point and you are riding above treeline. The views are GREAT, take a break and enjoy this part of the trail! Continue on Wolverine Trail and descend back down to Gilsonite Trail, turn left and follow your tracks back to the beginning.
Loading reviews...View more