Trail of the Week: Teocalli Ridge Loop, Colorado

Photo: Shana Light

Our Trail of the Week feature is made possible through a partnership with Trail Run Project.

Teocalli Ridge is a classic run in the Brush Creek area outside Crested Butte. It’s the perfect option if you want a full value run, but weather may be too spotty for a longer day in the high peaks. The high point is right below treeline, and while it’s never good to get stuck in a thunderstorm, you are never too exposed on this route.

Once on West Brush Creek Road, the climb starts to get steeper. In approximately half-mile, you’ll come to another intersection, take a right here at the sign directing you toward the Teocalli Mountain Trail. Soak up the views in the next couple miles along the West Brush Creek drainage.

When the road ends, you’ll take a right to get on Teocalli Mountain Trail #554. This is where the climb gets tough, but that is offset by stunning Elk Mountain scenery. When you get near the top of the ridge you’ll take a right onto Teocalli Ridge #557.

After awhile you’ll come to a break in the trees with a nice view point and stopping area. Soak in great views of Teocalli Mountain, Castle Peak, Pearl Pass, and the Middle Brush Creek drainage on your left. If you are on the mellow train, this is a good place for lunch.

A couple of need-to-knows: First, there are two creek crossings. One on the way up the doubletrack before you get to Teocalli Mountain Trail, and the other the way out on Brush Creek Road. In early season (late May/June) these may be high due to snowmelt, so use caution.

Secondly, this is a popular bike trail, so be alert for fast moving mountain bikers coming up behind you on the ridge and final downhill. You might be moving faster than them on the big climb!
The Data

Miles: 11.5

Runnable: 86 percent

Singletrack: 60 percent

Average Grade: 7 percent

Max Grade: 33 percent

Total Ascent: 2,168 feet

Total Descent: -2,172 feet

Highest Elevation: 11,269 feet

For a closer look, check out the interactive map, data, photos and virtual run simulator courtesy of Trail Run Project:

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