From Lake City, turn west onto Second street. Drive 0.1 mile and turn left onto Bluff Street which turns into the Henson Creek road/Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. Drive 5 miles to the sign for the Nellie Creek trail (#877), on the right. If you don't have a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, park on the Henson Creek road and start here. It's 4 miles up the Nellie Creek road to reach the trailhead. Cross Nellie Creek at 1.8 miles. At 2.3 miles, stay left at a junction. At 2.7 miles, cross the creek a second time. Grind up the remaining narrow road to reach the trailhead.
Notes
2WD dirt to the lower TH at 9,300'. 4WD to the upper TH.
Trailhead Status Updates
Most Recent Update 8/7/2026:
Closed again, likely due to increased Elk Fire activity. Drove to TH only to be disappointed D:
Usually closed a short distance up the Henson Creek road - many miles from the TH.
Trailhead Facilities & Fees
Parking: Room for ~15 vehicles at the 4WD parking. More room along the road. Camping: A few places to pull-off and pitch a tent near the bottom of the 4WD road and a few spots to set up at the upper trailhead. Restrooms: Yes, at the upper TH Fees: No
More Photos
1st creek crossing (filler rocks seen in 2008 phot...
