Directions

From the center of Gunnison, CO and the intersection of US50 and CO135, drive north on CO135 for just over 20 miles to the turnoff for CR740. This intersection comes between mile markers 20 and 21. The turnoff is to the right and this also serves as access to the local airport. The road starts out paved, but in one mile, turns to good, graded gravel. In 3.6 miles is the Cement Creek CG. After the campground there is a residential areas of several cabins followed by the Deadman Gulch TH. After this trailhead, there is another residentail area of more cabins, then road begins to degenerate into more of a 4WD track. At 8.0 miles, the road crosses Cement Creek to the east side, then climbs uphill on some switchbacks. On two of the switchback curves are some primitive campsites. At 8.6, 9.0 and 11.1, there are good primitive sites as well. The one at 11.1 is the trailhead for Hunter Creek. At 13.2 miles appx., the road crosses back over to the west side of Cement Creek. Right after crossing the stream, there's a place to park for one or two vehicles. This serves as the trailhead for Italian Peak. There may also be a spot or two before crossing the creek alongside the road. Overall, the drive back here is not technically difficult. 4WD capability is not as important as good clearance for all the potholes. Generally, rocks are not a big problem. Drive time from CO135 will be close to an hour.

An additional note: It is possible to continue up the road along Cement Creek with 4WD for some more distance if you're interested in exploring more of this area or hiking Crystal Peak. When you get to the Crystal peak Trail turnoff (#958), the road after that point becomes true 4WD. On the map we provide, we have shown a loop hike for Crystal Peak. This is a very nice half day hike that offers a tremendous and impressive view of Star Peak and Taylor as well, and it passes through an area of abundant wildflowers.


Camping

In the description above, there are several possible, primitive camping sites mentioned. Most if not all of these will be occupied on a weekend. There is one National Forest CG mentioned above. It is the Cement Creek CG. Here's the link to the Gunnison NF website page for this campground: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gmug/recarea/?recid=33152


Campsite Locations

Cement Creek › N 38° 49' 44", W 106° 50' 08"
Elevation 8980 ft.
Warning! Climbing peaks can be dangerous! By using this site and the information contained herein, you're agreeing to use common sense, good judgement, and to not hold us liable nor sue us for any reason. Legal Notice & Terms of Use.
x
Donate to Climb13ers.com ›