TR: Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop Hike (29 Sept 2015)

(Last Updated On: October 27, 2015)

The Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop hike is one of my most favorite fall hikes. And it’s easy to see why. At only 6.5 miles in length, it’s not too long and not too short. It’s just right. Plus, it offers some of the most spectacular views of the largest aspen grove in the world. So, for leaf peepin’ hikers, it’s a must.

The views are spectacular even from the parking lot, where you get a good view of the dyke which is a type of igneous intrusion for which the Dyke Trail is named.
The dyke near Crested Butte in the fall.

You also get a great view of East Beckwith, a laccolith, a different kind of igneous intrusion.
East Beckwith in the fall.

But never mind the geology lesson. We’re here for the leaves, right?
Dyke Trail near Crested Butte in the fall.

I began hiking on the Dyke Trail among some beautiful aspens.
Aspens on the Dyke Trail near Crested Butte in the fall.

Aspens on the Dyke Trail in Crested Butte

Shortly after leaving the Dyke Trail and entering into the Raggeds Wilderness, a rock outcropping offers some magnificent views. East and West Beckwith rise above the waves of color.
East an West Beckwith in the fall near Crested Butte.

Then, of course, there’s Marcellina, Crested Butte’s twin sister.
Marcellina in the fall, near Crested Butte.

More views of the dyke.
Dyke near Crested Butte in the fall.

Geologic Dyke

And some more spectacular views.
Hiking on the Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop

The geologic dyke near Crested Butte in the fall

The overlook on the Dark Canyon Trail is a must-stop.
Marcellina and the Raggeds seen from the Dark Canyon Trail in the fall

Views along the Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop Hike

A look back at Ruby and Mount Owen.
fall hiking in Crested Butte.

Beautiful golden leaves.
Views along the Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop Hike

So much color!
Fall colors in Crested Butte

Views from the Dark Canyon Trail near Crested Butte

It was not hard to remember why the Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop hike is one of my go-to favorite for fall 🙂

Want to do this hike yourself?

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Brittany Walker Konsella

Aside from skiing, biking, and all outdoorsy things,Brittany Walker Konsella also loves smiles and chocolate 🙂 Even though she excels at higher level math and chemistry, she still confuses left from right. Find out more about Brittany!

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Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop Hike
Article Name
Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop Hike
Description
See why the Dyke to Dark Canyon Loop hike, near Crested Butte, is a leaf peeping hiker's dream in the fall.
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Brittany Walker Konsella

Aside from skiing, biking, and all outdoorsy things, Brittany Walker Konsella also loves smiles and chocolate :) Even though she excels at higher level math and chemistry, she still confuses left from right. Find out more about Brittany!

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