Oh-Be-Joyful — the aptly-named trail says it all! This beautiful wilderness trail just north of charming Crested Butte will fill the bucket of outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. From novice short-day hikers to seasoned backpackers and hikers, the Oh-Be-Joyful out-and-back trail lets you choose your journey length and difficulty. Whatever distance you opt for, there are plenty of waterfalls, wildflowers, meadows, forests and towering mountains to go around.

The trail follows Oh-Be-Joyful Creek, which has 16 tributaries, meaning at any one point a person can see three or four waterfalls cascading hundreds of feet. The creek itself offers stunning waterfalls in a canyon that cuts and serpentines through black granite.

The variety of awe-inspiring settings throughout Oh-Be-Joyful Trail makes it one of the most pristine trails out there. Slow down, take your time, look all around, smile, sigh — and, oh, be joyful.

THE TRAIL

Because of its accessibility and trailhead campground, Oh-Be-Joyful Trail can be popular with locals and visitors alike. But with hikers of various abilities spread out over miles of scenic stops, it’s hardly noticeable. The trail begins flat on an old mining road along the Slate River before gaining moderate difficulty after a right turn, following Oh-Be-Joyful Creek and its valley.

Near the 1-mile point, the trail crosses into the Raggeds Wilderness Area and changes from the old jeep road into a more primitive singletrack that alternates between meadows, ponds and patches of forest. Eventually the trail traverses a long, open stretch of valley. At 3.9 miles, the trail passes a lone green gate where the peaks forming the ridgeline around the upper basin come into view.

As the trail makes its final climb to the basin and its intersection with Daisy Pass Trail, a creek crossing and steeper ascent await. The main trail to the basin below Oh-Be-Joyful Peak (12,420 feet) is approximately 11 miles round trip, with the option of extending the hike another 1.5 miles to Blue Lake, for a total of roughly 13-14 miles.

Hiking in June during the runoff gave us spectacular waterfall views, but snow did prevent us from hiking higher than the basin. The last 1.5 miles to Blue Lake are very steep and strenuous. Elevation gain to the basin is roughly 2,000 feet, and add another 1,000 feet if you hike to the lake. Mt. Owen (13,064 feet) towers above.

The best wildlife viewing opportunities are during the twilight hours when deer, elk and bears are the most active. Dogs are welcome, though leashing is recommended when wildlife or free-range cattle are present.

GETTING THERE

From Crested Butte, follow Gothic Road (CO 317) north for 0.9 miles and turn left onto Slate River Road (CR 734). After 4.6 miles, turn left at Oh- Be-Joyful Campground. The parking area is 0.4 miles on the left. A trail sign is located next to the restrooms.

Originally published in the summer 2026 issue of Spoke+Blossom.