Are dogs allowed on Horsethief to the Crags Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Horsethief to the Crags Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Horsethief to the Crags Trail?

No, Horsethief to the Crags 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 Horsethief to the Crags Trail?

Horsethief to the Crags Trail is rated difficult. It is 9.0 miles long with 2,287 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.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

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

See Colorado trail conditions

DifficultOut and Back

Colorado

Horsethief to the Crags Trail

Cripple Creek, Colorado

9.0 mi

Distance

2,287 ft

Elev. Gain

3h 57m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

This is a beautiful section of theRing the Peak trail. The closest sign up is Putney Gulch, which is 4 miles away from Horsethief Falls. It's easy to start at either end, we're easily accessible to cars. The Putney Gulch location is used for backpackers and can lead to a long day hike. There are many options to go off the main trail if you want more time. This place is not the only spot that you'll connect to. you will find fields of flowers and shady Aspen groves. If you plan for a longer trip, you can see certain places that you have come to rely on as a base for hikes.

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.

Elevation Profile

Min:2,961 ft

Max:3,211 ft

697 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
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.

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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