Butler Gulch Trail

Butler Gulch Trail is a scenic mountain trail that takes you through a forest and past a lovely stream. The trail is a pawpular place to hike in both the summer and winter—many people enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on this trail during the colder months of the year. Dogs are welcome to join you on this furrific trail both on and off-leash. If your dog is off-leash, just be sure to keep them under voice control.

There are two parking lots available for the trail: a larger parking lot about 0.25 miles from the trailhead and a smaller lot right by the trailhead that often fills up fast. The Butler Gulch Trail begins next to the smaller parking lot. Be sure to bring water to share, and clean up bags.

The first portion of the trail is a bit steep, and it takes you through a forest filled with spruce, aspen, and fir trees. After you’ve been walking for about a mile, you’ll pass a peaceful mountain stream. The stream is the perfect place for you and your dog to go for a quick swim on hot days!

After you pass the stream, the trail will take you above the treeline into an open bowl. Here, you’ll get stunning views of the mountains around the trail. In summer, this area is also filled with wildflowers. The trail ends at this beautiful open space—spend as much time as you’d like here admiring the view before you head back to the start of the trail.

Butler Gulch Trail is a fun-filled trail that takes you above the treeline and provides picturesque mountain views. Be sure to practice good petiquette and clean up after your dog while you’re hiking, and have a great time trekking here!