Trail Update: 06/21/24: Hiked to Alberta peak and there were 9 felled trees close to the Wolf Creek pass trailhead. There were 4 other trees on the way to Alberta.
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Length: 2.9 miles one way 5.8 miles roundtrip.
Elevation Stats: Elevation Gain 1,007′ (10,863′ to 11,870′) with ascent 1,067′ and descent 60′
Trail Facilities: None
Trail Summary: This trail is a section of the Continental Divide Trail #813 and is a very popular hike with great views of Wolf Creek Ski Area, Alberta Reservoir and the East Fork Valley. The trails starts by heading south and east from the Great Continental Divide display atop Wolf Creek Pass. Hike across the meadow and cross the bridge on the far side. Turn left immediately after crossing the bridge and stay left going up through the trees. The trail switchbacks up through the conifer forest for the first mile, with the Wolf Creek Ski area on your left and often a rocky talus slope on your right, referred to as “the Rock Garden”. At the top of the rock garden you encounter the top of the Bonanza Chair Lift, keep right as the trail enters the trees again. Along this section you will encounter the Treasure Pass trail going off steeply downhill on your right. At 2.1 miles the trail emerges from the trees and contours around the top of a steep bowl on your right. From here there are views down into the East Fork Valley. The trail will then bear left and come out on top of a ridge that is the top of the ski area. Follow the trail across the ridge to the base of Alberta Peak . The CDT goes around the peak to the right but the peak may be summited by scrambling up its rocky slope to the top at 11,870′ elevation. The summit provides a great lunch spot with unbelievable views in all directions.
Options: Because this hike is part of the CDT it is possible to extend it to any length desired.
Driving Directions to Trailhead: From Forest Service Office head east on Highway 160 for 22.9 miles till you reach top of Wolf Creek Pass. The large parking lot will be on the right next to Continental Divide Display sign.
9/13/24 – Trail conditions were good, there were zero downed trees across the trail. Did pass under 7 overhanging trees that will eventually be coming down across trail, but they weren’t an issue. Was quite windy on the ridge and top.
Hiked to Alberta peak and there were 9 felled trees close to the Wolf Creek pass trailhead. There were 4 other trees on the way to Alberta.
Challenging but beautiful hike for us Texans. All the fallen trees are clear and little snow. The wildflowers were lovely.
Heli logging in progress on August 16, road to trailhead closed. No alternative route we could find.
wonderful trail. no obstructions. the ascent (bouldering) to Alberta Peak was a bit tricky with my dog attached to me but we made it. Began at 11am (late!) but on a good weather day. Picnic at peak. Returned by 2:30p. Saw about 13 people total and 4 dogs (plus mine), only 2 people that began hiking after me.
There are several downed trees across the lower part of the trail. Going over most and under at least one was not difficult. After passing these, the trail is clear.
Thanks, Doug, for the update. We are working with the Forest Service to try to clear those trees.