DIRECTIONS:

From Hwy 50 in Delta, Colorado, take CO State Highway 348 (Bridge Street) over the Uncompahgre River and south for 2 3/4 miles. Turn west (right) on 25 Mesa Road (still CO 348) and stay on 26 Mesa Road heading west for 3 miles to a sharp bend in the road. Turn left onto A 49 Road. Follow A 49 Road for 4.3 miles and keep an eye out for some dispersed campsites along the creek. Around the bend in the road is the small trail marker for the Sheep Trail. Park near the campsites.

HIKE DESCRTIPTION:

Roubideau Canyon west of Delta is a beautiful and isolated area worthy of exploration. The canyon sees little visitation despite having a good dirt road for access. There are longer hikes that start at the end of A 49 Road and then there is the Sheep Trail. The Sheep Trail is perfect for a quick birds eye view of the canyon, though maybe not in the heat of the summer.

The trail starts adjacent to some dispersed campsites about a mile from the end of the road at the confluence of Potter Creek and Roubideau Creek. The Sheep Trail heads both north and south from the campsites though the southern leg of the trail requires crossing Roubideau creek, which can be dicey. The north leg meanders its way up the rolling hills of the lower canyon and then switchbacks up through the upper canyon’s cliffs through a break in the cliffs called “The Narrows.” Once on top of the canyon rim, the trail meets up with 25 Mesa Road. There is a faint trail however, that continues to climb up to a little highpoint with amazing views of the canyon. This extra hike is definitively worth it especially for the view to the east of the canyon with the West Elk Mountains on the horizon.

For such a short hike (about 2 miles roundtrip), the Sheep Trail packs a punch. Dramatic canyon views, creek access, geologic wonder, solitude, and easy vehicle access…what else could you ask for…maybe some shade…