Monte Cristo Ghost Town — Saturday, Jul. 6, 2019

Park at the Barlow Pass Trailhead (we got there at 0930 and the trail head was filling up, so you may have to park at street level). Walk down to the street level and turn left then walk to the gated road a few hundred feet on the right. The trail isn't marked well and can get a little confusing once off the graveled road. Do Not follow any little trails off of the main one! Once you've crossed the big log "bridge" (not hard to cross), follow the short little trail up to the graveled road and follow it to the right. Stay on that main road/trail for approximately 3-4 miles and you can't miss Monte Carlo Township. The trail goes on further, but we did not today. The trail was in good condition, dry, with a couple small muddy spots. Beautiful scenery with the mountains, river, and wildflowers. The town itself was really neat with old buildings, equipment, an open field of wildflowers, afew picnic tables, mountains, the river, and if you continue just past the field on the other side of the fenced building... there is a small waterfall). For the most part, the trail is flat, however, there are some hills to climb (not steep and no switchbacking). The terrain is small graveled road, dirt trail, and moderately sized rocks. The description says its an 8 mile hike out to Monte Cristo Township and back, but it's closer to 10 miles. Elevation gain of 700ft is about right. Definitely worth the trip out there!!