About Main Elk #2157
The Main Elk trail is 2.5 miles long and connects the Clinetop Trailhead to the Mansfield Ditch Trail (#2291). From the Clinetop side, the first 0.5 miles of trail are relatively flat. This initial section crosses through private land, so please stay in the designated trail corridor. The trail then begins steadily climbing up a ridge, offering visitors outstanding views of Hadley Gulch, the Main Elk Creek valley, and Deep Creek Point. The trail continues to follow the top of the ridge, gradually gaining elevation and winding its way through thick oak brush. At 2.5 miles, visitors will reach the Mansfield Ditch Trail. From here, a left turn will take visitors south to the Forest Boundary, and a right turn leads north toward the Cherry Creek Connector and Clark’s Point.Main Elk Trail is open to foot, horse, and bicycle use.
How to Get There
From New Castle, CO travel north on County Road 245 (Buford-New Castle Road). After 3.1 miles, turn right onto County Road 243 (Main Elk Creek Road) and travel 5.8 miles to the Clinetop Trailhead. The trailhead will be on the left side of the road. Walk or ride 0.25 miles back up the road to access Main Elk Trail. Note: The eastern end of the trail is located on Forest Road 603, about 0.25 miles south of the Clinetop Trailhead. To access the trail, park at the Clinetop Trailhead and walk or ride back down the road. Look for a small brown gate on the right hand side of the road, next to a larger green gate onto private property. Please respect all “Private Property,” “No Trespassing,” and “No Parking” signs.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Main Elk #2157
Heading to Main Elk #2157? 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 Main Elk #2157?
No central reservation system listed for Main Elk #2157. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10087644) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Main Elk #2157?
From New Castle, CO travel north on County Road 245 (Buford-New Castle Road). After 3.1 miles, turn right onto County Road 243 (Main Elk Creek Road) and travel 5.8 miles to the Clinetop Trailhead. The trailhead will be on the left side of the road. Walk or ride 0.25 miles back up the road to access Main Elk Trail. Note: The eastern end of the trail is located on Forest Road 603, about 0.25 miles s…
References & Official Resources
