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A direct approach to Geneva Basin by connecting old wagon roads along Mill Gulch.


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Map Key

3.8

Miles

6.1

KM

Ascent

11,703' 3,567 m

High

9,766' 2,977 m

Low

1,941' 592 m

Up

4' 1 m

Down

10%

Avg Slope (6°)

42%

Max Slope (23°)
Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry
With significant efforts by local ski groups, the trail has been pruned and trimmed and is easily navigated... the trail is regularly skied now.

Need to Know

It is possible (but not as much fun) to skip the initial bushwhacking near Duck Creek Picnic Area by continuing up Guanella Pass Road for 0.25 miles to the driveway of the seasonal residence. This driveway will deliver you to the northern end of the meadow and onto the wagon road, no bushwhacking required!

Description

From the cul-de-sac at the Duck Creek Picnic Area, find the abandoned wagon trail at the north end of the lot. Follow this gentle climb until it delivers you to the side of a large willow-choked meadow. Cross the creek and continue to the far northern end aiming for the center.

The Mill Gulch wagon road begins to reveal itself as you leave the meadow and enter the forest. Shortly, you'll arrive at a small clearing where Mill Gulch and Duck Creek split...veer left and follow the wagon road up Mill Gulch. The trail climbs gently through a beautiful valley as it ascends Mill Gulch crossing the occasional downed tree or small creek.

Eventually a vague "y" in the road forces you to choose to turn east or head steeply up the old road. Both choices are correct as they both deliver you eventually to a steep, south-facing slope with large cabin ruins perched in a small clearing.

Geneva Basin (specifically the Sundance Chair) and Garret's Glade lie at the top of the steep (>34 degrees) gulley behind the cabin ruins. Due to it's south-facing nature and out-of-character grade, one can approach it directly with some kick steps in good snow or steer around the rise on the left and find better snow for skinning (more bushwhacking).

Either way, at the top you are met with very mellow meadows and shortly you'll find the remnants of a lift house. Garret's Glade follows the easiest grade over to the the junction with Passage and the main route up to the old ski patrol hut.

Contacts

Shared By:

Mark McConnell

Trail Ratings

  3.0 from 1 vote

#373

Overall
  3.0 from 1 vote
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Ascent Rankings

#134

in Colorado

#373

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1,569 Since Dec 14, 2020
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Photos

Climbing towards the old ski patrol cabin.
Dec 14, 2020 near Georgetown, CO
Kristin approaching the Ski Patrol Hut near the top of Geneva Basin Ski Area 2/1/2020.
Feb 5, 2020 near Georgetown, CO
Skinning to the hut.
Mar 6, 2023 near Georgetown, CO
Heather flirting with the liftie because she forgot her pass.
Dec 14, 2020 near Georgetown, CO
Heather is happy to find a blue diamond!
Dec 14, 2020 near Georgetown, CO
Mill Gulch Wagon Road
Dec 14, 2020 near Georgetown, CO

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