Mileage: Full route (Josephine pk. + Strawberry loop) = 19 miles
OPTION: Josephine pk only = approx. 4 miles out so 8 total
OPTION: Strawberry circuit only = approx. 16 miles

Total elevation gain: Full route = 3,480 ft

This loop circumnavigates Strawberry Peak.

We start at Clear Creek where it’s easy to find parking. We love this area so much that we like to add on the climb to Josephine peak in the beginning of the loop.

We start running on the Josephine Fire Rd, Strawberry Spur trail, Colby Canyon trail, Strawberry Peak trail, Gabrielino Trail and finish the run on the Nature’s Canteen trail.
OPTION1: we can run a short out&back or little loop to Josephine Peak (adding about 3 miles).
OPTION2: we can add another short out & back to Strawberry Peak via the backside (less strenuous) adding a 1.5 mile steep climb with +1,000 ft of gain, this will take about 30 minutes to reach the peak, then head back the same way to our original route and continue the loop.

Red Box at mile 10.5 has water fountains and bathrooms, use the water to refill, we still have a long hot section ahead! Very enjoyable loop, nothing too steep or technical, a little longer but that makes up for the longer drive out.

Bring enough water and calories. Don’t underestimate running at higher altitude, it’s harder than on sea level and you’ll burn more calories. This entire loop is all between 4,000ft-6,000ft altitude, nothing crazy but it still a lung and leg burner.

ADVENTURE PASS: for the National Forest we need an adventure pass. Same one we use at Chantry. Buy at your local REI, Big5, etc… GAS up your car before you head up the mountain!