The Colorado Trail is a 486-mile long-distance trail in Colorado, running from Waterton Canyon near Denver to Durango. It is known for its spectacular scenery and challenging high-altitude terrain, with most of the trail being above 10,000 feet. It is popular for hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding, and approximately 75% of the trail is also open to mountain biking. Managed by the Colorado Trail Foundation (CTF), the trail is divided into segments, with thru-hikers typically completing it in 4–6 weeks, though day hikes are also popular.
Key Features & Terrain
- Length: 486 miles.
- Location: Southern Rocky Mountains of Colorado, from Denver to Durango.
- Elevation: Ranges from 6,000 feet to over 13,000 feet, with most of the trail at high altitudes.
- Terrain: Features high alpine singletrack, stunning mountain vistas, and passes through multiple wilderness areas and national forests.
Activities
- Hiking & Backpacking: The trail is a premier destination for through-hiking and day hiking.
- Biking: Approximately 75% of the trail is open to mountain bikers, with some segments closed due to being designated wilderness.
- Horseback Riding: The trail is open to horses and riders along the entire length.
Management & Maintenance
- Colorado Trail Foundation (CTF): A non-profit organization that manages and maintains the trail through volunteer crews, ensuring it remains in good condition.
- Permits: While some areas require free self-registration permits, no advance reservations are generally needed for thru-hikers.
Planning Your Trip
- Best Time to Go: Late June through late September, as high-elevation snowpack can linger into July, and early snow can make the trail difficult after late September.
- Potential Challenges: Be prepared for challenging weather, including afternoon thunderstorms, and be aware of high-altitude risks like hypothermia and dehydration.
- Resupply: The CTF provides detailed information in their guidebook and on their website for resupply points and planning your trip.
- Safety: Be prepared for lightning, especially in the high country. Avoid higher elevations and ridges during afternoon storms.
Planning Resources
- The official Colorado Trail Foundation website is the best resource for planning your trip.
- The CTF publishes an official guidebook that divides the trail into 33 segments, including the Collegiate West alternative route.
