Mad Creek Trail a Family Friendly Adventure

by | Jul 6, 2022 | HIKES, MODERATE TRAILS, NORTHERN | 0 comments

Mt Zerkel Wilderness, Steamboat Springs trails, Colorado, Colorado vacation, Colorado hikes, best hikes in Colorado

Mad Creek Trail located 10 minutes from Steamboat Springs, CO is a favorite among locals and visitors. Hike to Mad Barn a historical landmark, and find marmots scurrying about. Picnic by the river you saw as you hiked to the Barn and take in the sounds of nature. 

Mt Zirkel Wilderness, hikes Steamboat Springs, family hikes, best family hikes near Steamboat Springs

The first 1/2 mile is a steep start but soon becomes a mild hike for the next 2 miles. Not much shade so recommend sunscreen, a hat, or an umbrella for protection. (In winter the sun will feel great!) 

The views are fantastic the entire hike and the river (actually snowmelt that feeds the Elk River) is running high in late June far below us. 

Every now and then we are within canyon rocks and pines and back into the sunshine and meadows of wildflowers.

I feel like this area would be a super fall hike for aspen colors and an enjoyable snowshoe trek in winter.

KIDS LIKE HIKING TOO!

Kids Camelback Hydration Pack 

Merril Unisex Child Trail Chasers

Kids Safety Emergency Whisle

MAD CREEK BARN

Mad Creek Barn, Steamboat Springs, family trails in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

1906 Mad Barn is in view and I can hear marmots warning of our arrival! We wandered around a bit, explored the inside of the barn, and imagined how it was long ago.

NOTE: a rancher, James Ratcliff bought the property in 1904, began homesteading it, and built the barn in 1906.

Mount Zirkel Wilderness, Marmots, Mad Creek Barn, hikes in Steamboat Springs, day hikes, hiking trails near Steamboat Springs,

MARMOTS EVERYWHERE!

Love the marmots, they are truly everywhere. Most were under the barn, peeking out and studying us. I’ve never witnessed so many in one place. Locals tell me they are always here, every summer.

Hiking a little farther we ended up near homestead remnants and the river. Hung out for a bit and simply enjoyed it before heading back.

TIDBITS

5 miles out & back

Rated: slightly moderate

800′ elevation gain the first mile

Trail #1100

Routt National Forest

Historical 1906 Landmark

Open to dogs & horseback

Popular MTB area

Family friendly

COLORADO HIKES YOU WILL LOVE!

Ptarmigan Lake Trail, Cottonwood Pass,, Hikes on Cottonwood Pass, Hikes Buena Vista, Colorado, hiking trails, day hikes, popular hikes in Colorado,

20 HIKES FOR THE HIKING ENTHUSIASTS!

Crystal Lakes Trail, Breckenridge, CO, Hikes Breckenridge, Day hikes, best hikes in Breckenridge, hiking trails, day hikes, where to hike in Breck, Breck trails,

ALPINE LAKE HIKES, 18 BEAUTIFUL TRAILS!

family hikes in Summit County, family hikes, easy trails, beginner hikes, best family hikes in Frisco, kid friendly trails,

EASY TRAILS IN COLORADO’S MOUNTAINS!

Can't wait to see you on the trail!

Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).

LEAVE NO TRACE 

ENCOUNTERING WILDLIFE  

APPROPRIATE HIKING GEAR

Connect with me on Instagram! I enjoy hanging out there and leaving tidbits of trails I’ve hiked in Colorado. Follow me and say hi – send me a message! Follow other hikers and be inspired!