Flume | Creekside Loop

This is a physically easy trail but does require intermediate off-road skills. This is one of the favorite rides in the area. Bring a picnic and enjoy the views of Byers Peak.

Begin at St. Louis Creek Campground. The trailhead for Creekside is on the west side of the parking area. Creekside begins as a two track that is rocky and rutted in sections and slightly uphill with little terrain change at the beginning. The two track will turn into a single track as the trail approaches the creek. The single track trail becomes more difficult with less gravel, larger river rock and more twists and turns. This is the most scenic part of the trail. Large beaver ponds may harbor an occasional moose, so take time to enjoy your surroundings.

Creekside will end on FS 159. Turn left. Look for Flume Trail slightly uphill and on your left. Enter Flume and be prepared for an extremely fun ride. This trail is a slightly moderate descent with numerous turns, yet is never too hard. The kind of ride that makes your smile hurt. A heavily wooded forest will give way to open meadows. In the spring, these meadows are full of wildflowers. Flume Trail gets its name from an old logging flume or chute, which it parallels for much of the ride. The trail will go through some aspens before reaching the scenic overlook bench. Take time to enjoy the view of Byers Peak and St. Louis Creek. Shortly after the scenic overlook is a trail junction. Straight ahead is Chainsaw. Turn left and the trail will take you across St. Louis Creek.

Turn left after the bridge and follow an old road back to the campground.