Pipeline Trail Burch Hollow to Elbow Fork

This is another Millcreek Canyon snowshoe hike. Since it is a South-facing trail, the snow is disappearing quickly in spots.  The hikes starts 3.8 miles past the toll booth. Park on the left side of the road. (The Burch Hollow sign is on the right side of the road just before the parking area). Head up the trail. It is not particularly steep.  After about 1/2 mile, you will get to a sign giving you the option to head left toward the Grandeur Peak Trail or right to Elbow Fork. The sign says it is 2 miles to Elbow Fork, but this is way off!  It is actually 3.23 miles to Elbow Fork, or about 2.75 miles from this sign!  The entire hike from the parking area to Elbow Fork is only a 750 feet gain in elevation, so not bad at all.  There are some nice big pine trees, especially at the beginning and at the end of the trail.  When I arrived at Elbow Fork I hiked back down the road to my car.  The total hike was 5.15 miles and took a leisurely 2 1/2 hours. I wore a light jacket but took it off at the .5 mile point.  Things I pondered about: What percent of dog owners do not clean up after their dog?  My guess is 5%.  That adds up to a lot of mess.  Why can dog feces be smelled from 50 feet away, but deer scat is odorless at 3 feet away?  (Carnivore diet?)

Trailhead

Looking across the canyon to the Terraces road.

Sign at .5 miles with incorrect mileage info.

Sign at about 2 mile point. I want to explore this trail soon.

Plenty of deer scat around.

Getting close to Elbow Fork

My trekking poles taking a rest at Elbow Fork

Looking down at skiers almost to Elbow Fork