Clunker Trail - Trailhead to Miramonte Rim, CO

Warning
Mountain biking can be dangerous - please know your skill level and be appropriately prepared with PPE before starting any trail.

Overview
This trail drops down into a canyon between the Little Park and Lunch Loops areas and provides connections between both.

History
This area has been settled by American colonists since the late 1800s and many historic objects can be seen along the trail at various points.

Hike
From the trailhead, the trail splits. The right branch, heading downcanyon is the Clunker trail, while the left branch connects into the Holy Bucket Trail. The trail side-hills down a colorful Morrison slope as it descends towards the creek at the canyon bottom. The sense of wilderness is not present here in this canyon, however, as houses dot the rim and people on patios may be watching you hike. In several places the descent is steep and the slick Morrison can be treacherous even when dry, turning impassable when wet.

Once at the bottom of the canyon the trail immediately turns left to avoid crossing onto private property. This junction with a private trail is well marked and it should be obvious, but in case some confusion exists simply take the trail that crosses the canyon instead of heading further downcanyon. Along this stretch, there are historic artifacts from early settlers and miners, so enjoy these traces of the past.

Once across the creek and on the north side of the canyon, the trail bends again to follow the canyon wall. At this point, you are roughly halfway to the junction with the Miramonte Rim connector trail. Along this section of trail, the going is easy, the trail gains little elevation and the views into the upper canyon area can be quite pleasing. It is also easy to see the Holy Bucket Trail on the far side of the canyon, and it is not uncommon to share the trail with hikers, joggers, and mountain bikers.
Once you reach the signed junction with the Miramonte Rim trail, you can continue straight on the Clunker trail towards the Holy Cross trail (roughly another 0.6 miles ahead) or turn right and climb the mesa to do the Miramonte Rim Trail or connect into the other Lunch Loops area trails.

Water Sources
A seasonal creek exists, but it is best to bring your own.

Camping
No.

Note
This trail is rated Blue (Intermediate) for mountain bikers. This trail is also open to motorized traffic, specifically dirtbikes and other small OHVs less than 42" across.

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2020-05-23 PaleoRob