About Nellie's #1839
This very steep trail begins at a junction with Turret Creek Trail #1832 and ends at the junction with Johnny Meyers Trail #2067. Follow the Turret Creek Trail #1832 about 1.6 miles before taking a right on Nellie's Trail for another 2 miles. A popular trail for horseback riders, the trail begins by crossing Turret Creek and passes through aspen forests before a steep uphill climb through open meadows. A more gradual climb is to be expected before reaching Johnny Meyers trail.On the way up the slope, hikers are treated to incredible panoramic views of Sweetwater Lake, Sweetwater Canyon, Shingle and Turret Peaks, and the snow-capped mountain ranges beyond, providing the hiker with excellent photo opportunities.* There is a printable Recreation Quicksheet for this trail which is complete with directions, a map, details, and other information about this trail. Or to see quicksheets for other recreation areas across the Forest, click on the "Recreation Quicksheets" link in the right column and select the appropriate Ranger District.
How to Get There
Travel 13 miles from Eagle on I-70 to the Dotsero exit and follow the signs for Sweetwater/ Burns by turning north onto the Colorado River Road.Follow the Colorado River Rd. for 7 miles and turn left onto the Sweetwater Creek Road.Stay on Sweetwater Creek Rd. for 11.5 miles, parking near the cabins for the Sweetwater Wilderness Ranch, more parking is available a 1/4 mile up the short, 4-wheel drive road that leads to Hilltop Ranch.To access the trailhead go up to Hilltop Ranch and through the gate, travel on Turret Creek-FDT 1832 for 1/2 mile, take a right at the fork crossing the creek.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Nellie's #1839
Heading to Nellie's #1839? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Nellie's #1839?
No central reservation system listed for Nellie's #1839. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10084494) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Nellie's #1839?
Travel 13 miles from Eagle on I-70 to the Dotsero exit and follow the signs for Sweetwater/ Burns by turning north onto the Colorado River Road.Follow the Colorado River Rd. for 7 miles and turn left onto the Sweetwater Creek Road.Stay on Sweetwater Creek Rd. for 11.5 miles, parking near the cabins for the Sweetwater Wilderness Ranch, more parking is available a 1/4 mile up the short, 4-wheel driv…
References & Official Resources
