A Short Guide to Hiking the Colorado Trail

The Colorado Trail (CT) stretches across the Rocky Mountain Range from Denver to Durango. It takes you through some of the country’s highest elevations, most stunning scenery, and most temperamental weather.

From the flower-filled alpine meadows of the Sawatch Mountains to the dramatic craggy peaks of the San Juans, a hike on the CT is sure to be a journey full of challenges and rewarding experiences.

Quick Facts

• Distance: 486 miles (give or take a few depending on whether you choose the Collegiate West or Collegiate East route)
• Time Needed: 4-6 weeks
• Highest Elevation: 13,334 ft. - Coney Summit
• Lowest Elevation: 5,520 ft. - Waterton Canyon
• Elevation Gain (approx.): 89,000 ft.
• Best Time to Hike: According to the Colorado Trail Foundation, July 1 to September 30 is the ideal window for hiking. Snow is typically still present along much of the trail before July. After September you run the risk of dealing with early-season snow storms.
• Permits: None
• Difficulty: Strenuous

Highlights

• Nearly unending views since much of the trail is above treeline
• Lots of great resupply towns
• Tons of wildlife & wildflowers
• Social & friendly trail community
• Feeling amazingly capable & confident at the end of the journey
• You can peak bag some awesome 14ers on short side trails
• Well marked & maintained

Continue reading Casey Hadley's guide to the colorado trail here.