The Seedhouse Road Trail in Routt National Forest follows the Elk River through the forest corridor approaching the Mount Zirkel Wilderness trailheads. The six-mile round trip is a gentler option than the wilderness lake hikes, staying in the lower valley terrain with a consistent but modest elevation gain of 800 feet.
The Elk River valley is one of the more scenic approaches to the Zirkel Wilderness, with the river running through open meadows and aspen-fringed banks. Early morning visits reveal the elk and deer that make this valley one of the better wildlife viewing corridors in the Routt.
The Route
The trail follows the Elk River upstream from a Forest Road 400 trailhead. The lower sections move through open meadow terrain with the river visible throughout. The trail climbs gradually as the valley narrows in the upper section, where spruce-fir forest closes in on both sides.
The turnaround at three miles sits at the edge of the steeper terrain approaching the wilderness boundary. Return on the same route.
What to Expect
Spring and fall offer the best wildlife viewing on this trail. Elk move through the valley in significant numbers during both the spring green-up and fall migration. The river provides context for much of the hike, with the sound of moving water consistent throughout.
Wildflowers in the valley meadows are good in June and early July, earlier than the high-country blooms above. This is a practical advantage for hikers visiting before mid-July when the Zirkel routes are still snow-affected.
Nearby
Clark, Colorado, is just south along County Road 129 and has a general store. Steamboat Springs is about 25 miles south with full resort services. The Elk River itself is a designated fishing stream worth planning time for if you fish.
Leave No Trace
This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.
Safety Considerations
The moderate rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Routt National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.