Are dogs allowed on Chocolate Gulch Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Chocolate Gulch Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Chocolate Gulch Trail?

No, Chocolate Gulch Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Chocolate Gulch Trail?

Chocolate Gulch Trail is rated moderate. It is 5.3 miles long with 1,378 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Chocolate Gulch Trail?

Chocolate Gulch Trail is best hiked in spring, summer, and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Idaho trail conditions

ModerateLoop

Idaho

Chocolate Gulch Trail

Ketchum, Idaho

5.3 mi

Distance

1,378 ft

Elev. Gain

2h 12m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Chocolate Gulch Trail, located near Ketchum, Idaho, offers a scenic 5.3-mile loop through the rugged terrain typical of the Sawtooth National Forest region. With an elevation gain of 1,378 feet, this moderate trail takes hikers through diverse landscapes, including open meadows and forested areas. The trail reaches a maximum elevation of 2,088 meters (6,850 feet), providing potential vistas of the surrounding mountainous area.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

steep elevation gain

Elevation Profile

Min:1,865 ft

Max:2,088 ft

420 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Highlights

mountain viewsforest setting

Reviews

No reviews yet

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context