Geneva Basin via Mill Gulch

Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry

It is possible (but not as much fun) to skip the initial bushwhacking near Duck Creek Picnic Area by continuing up Guanella Pass Road for 0.25 miles to the driveway of the seasonal residence. This driveway will deliver you to the northern end of the meadow and onto the wagon road, no bushwhacking required!

From the cul-de-sac at the Duck Creek Picnic Area, find the abandoned wagon trail at the north end of the lot. Follow this gentle climb until it delivers you to the side of a large willow-choked meadow. Cross the creek and continue to the far northern end aiming for the center.

The Mill Gulch wagon road begins to reveal itself as you leave the meadow and enter the forest. Shortly, you'll arrive at a small clearing where Mill Gulch and Duck Creek split...veer left and follow the wagon road up Mill Gulch. The trail climbs gently through a beautiful valley as it ascends Mill Gulch crossing the occasional downed tree or small creek.

Eventually a vague "y" in the road forces you to choose to turn east or head steeply up the old road. Both choices are correct as they both deliver you eventually to a steep, south-facing slope with large cabin ruins perched in a small clearing.

Geneva Basin (specifically the Sundance Chair) and Garret's Glade lie at the top of the steep (>34 degrees) gulley behind the cabin ruins. Due to it's south-facing nature and out-of-character grade, one can approach it directly with some kick steps in good snow or steer around the rise on the left and find better snow for skinning (more bushwhacking).

Either way, at the top you are met with very mellow meadows and shortly you'll find the remnants of a lift house. Garret's Glade follows the easiest grade over to the the junction with Passage and the main route up to the old ski patrol hut.