Challenging trail over "TheWall".

Poughkeepsie Gulch 2.5 - 3.5

Poughkeepsie Gulch is about the only challenging Jeep trail in the San Juans. There is one major obstacle called "The Wall" that causes the 3.5 rating.

When most people talk about this trail they focus on "The Wall". That is important, but the scenery in the gulch is also worthy of mention - especially Lake Como.

Until 2015 there was no bypass for the wall. You had to climb it or go back. This caused quite a few accidents so a bypass was built and you can now enjoy Poughkeepsie Gulch without the major challenge.

There is a GPS - gpx track file at the bottom of the page.

V notch at The Wall

The trail in is rated at a strong 2.5. There is at least one tricky ledge and quite a stretch of road with many boulders. The bypass, and the road beyond, is easier.

Trail in at treeline

Bypass

The Wall can be divided into 3 sections: A long steep climb on the left, a "V" in the middle and a shorter but tricky climb on the right.

The long climb on the left is easier with a spotter to keep you on track and to tell you the couple times you need to "bump it".

The "V" is tricky (introductory photo) and should be left to very experienced drivers, or those with large wallets. We do not do this one.

The shorter climb on the right is a slab of ledges with a crack up the middle. There are several lines that will get you up over it. Be careful not to drop a rear tire into the crack. There are winch points if you need them.