Table of Contents
How long is each segment of the Colorado Trail?
The Route
| Segment | Locations | Mileage |
|---|---|---|
| Segment 15 | US-50 to Marshall Pass Trailhead | 14.3 miles |
| Segment 16 | Marshall Pass Trailhead to Sargents Mesa | 15.2 miles |
| Segment 17 | Sargents Mesa to Colorado Hwy-114 | 20.4 miles |
| Segment 18 | Colorado Hwy-114 to Saguache Park Road | 13.8 miles |
How many segments are in the Colorado Trail?
The Colorado Trail is divided into 33 segments which includes a choice of two routes in the middle, Collegiate East and Collegiate West. See the map on our maps page for a quick look at the segments.
Is the Colorado Trail well marked?
The trail itself: The Colorado Trail is very well-marked for a western trail. Navigation is easy, the weather hazards (see below) are quickly dealt with with some prior planning and the trail is logistically easy. A great trail for a first long hike and/or to get a western trail experience!
How long is Segment 3 of The Colorado Trail?
12.5 miles
This segment is popular with day mountain bikers and has moderate traffic. Colorado Trail segment 3 starts at Little Scraggy TH and ends at Rolling Creek TH. The trail is 12.5 miles long with just under 2,000 ft of elevation gain.
How long is Section 2 of The Colorado Trail?
This segment is popular with day hikers, backpackers and mountain bikers and is one of the most heavily trafficked segments of the Colorado Trail. Colorado Trail Segment 2 is 11.5 miles long and 2,482 ft of elevation gain. Much of segment 2 works through the Buffalo Creek fire burn zone.
How much water should you carry on The Colorado Trail?
If you stop to filter often you can carry 1-2 liters at a time for much of the trail, filtering from the frequent, clear mountain streams and only filling up to 3 liters for the odd dry stretch or dry camp.
Can you camp anywhere on The Colorado Trail?
Is camping allowed on The Colorado Trail? Camping is allowed on the majority of The Colorado Trail. Waterton Canyon is one place along the Trail where camping is not allowed. Both the Guidebook and Databook indicate these places where camping is prohibited.
How long is Section 2 of the Colorado Trail?
How long is Segment 5 of the Colorado Trail?
14.6 miles
Segment 5 is 14.6 miles long with 1,858 feet of elevation gain. The segment is mostly through open fields, rolling hills and ends on beautiful Kenosha Pass which is littered with Aspen Trees.
Can a beginner hike The Colorado Trail?
Experts recommend beginning the trail in Denver, where the mountains tend to be less rugged in comparison to The San Juan range which sits on the opposite end of the trail in Southwest Colorado.
Is The Colorado Trail well marked?