Completed in 1987, the Colorado Trail stretches 485 magnificent miles from Denver to Durango. Along the way it meanders through high alpine mountains and valleys, offering a glimpse at some of the finest terrain Colorado has to offer. It traverses eight mountain ranges, six wilderness areas and stays above 10,000’ for the majority of the trail. Highlights include the Collegiate Range, where multiple 14ers are just off trail and can easily be climbed, and the San Juans, where the trail remains above tree line for days at a time and climbs to elevations of over 13,000’. There is also abundant wildlife along the Colorado Trail, ranging in size from small pika and marmot, to bear and moose.
The trail is divided into 28 different segments, each beginning at a trailhead accessible by vehicle. This accessibility is what makes the Colorado Trail special. Day hikers and section hikers can easily find their way to new segments of trail, while thru hikers can still enjoy a wild and rugged four to six week journey. Below is a description for Colorado Trail Segment 19.
Segment 19 begins at the well maintained gravel Saguache Park Road (CO RD 17FF). You’ll continue walking double track road for the first stretch of this segment as you carry on across more cow pasture land. The terrain is rather unexciting, but there are a couple of semi-reliable water sources in the area including Ant Creek.
You’ll then veer to the left and continue following a gravel road. The trail winds its way around a mountain, beginning with a gradual ascent, then a descent. You will certainly enjoy the lovely Aspen Trees that begin to appear, a welcome sight after the last stretch of trail.
After passing a small, nasty cow pond and rounding a knob you’ll have your first views of the Cochetopa Creek Valley. This is such a great view for thru hikers after making it through the last few segments, which many consider the worst of the Colorado Trail.
Descend down to the creek and enjoy the fresh water. The trail follows fairly flat terrain near the creek for a while, then ascends a bit above the creek and into some Aspens. You’ll then have a short but steep descent down to Cochetopa Creek which you’ll cross. The bridge is out but you should be able to keep your feet dry here. There are also some cool rock formations near the crossing.
Next you’ll continue on and soon cross over Nutras Creek. The remainder of the trail is quite nice and scenic as you continue on to Eddiesville Trailhead where there is ample parking and a vault toilet. This marks the end of Segment 19. Southbound CT hikers will finally start to enter the San Juans beginning next segment.
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