Colorado Trail Segment 6

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 6.

Segment 6 begins at Kenosha Pass, where it is a short hitch to the tiny town of Jefferson or Fairplay. From the highway the trail ascends past Kenosha Pass Campground. You’ll continue ascending until you get to a great viewpoint. The wide open flatland down below contrasts nicely with the massive mountains in the distance.

You’ll eventually descend and head through some Aspens. The trail will cross Jefferson Creek (which is more like a small river). This is a lovely place to take a lunch break or rest.

Next is a long ascent to Georgia Pass. You’ll climb steadily through the forest until you begin to break out above treeline. The views are stunning from the top, by far the best views of the trail (thus far) for southbound thru hikers.

You’ll then descend down to the Middle Fork of the Swan River. The last bit of this descent is a bit steep and rocky, but nothing too bad. At the bottom there is some good camping near the river.

You’ll then cross a 4x4 road and parallel near it for a while. At one point you may hear some dogs barking and see a facility, this is a kennel area for sled dogs that give sled rides to guests during the winter months!

You’ll then have a climb up to a ridge. From the top you’ll have views toward Keystone Ski Resort. Next the trail descends for a while, but fairly gently. Be warned that this section of trail is very popular with mountain bikers, so keep an eye out! The trail descends to a creek and some power lines, before ascending again.

Before long you’ll be descending again through young pine forest and open meadow areas. As you near the end of the segment the trail makes quite a few switchbacks down to a neighborhood. Walk through the neighborhood and cross Highway 9. Gold Hill Trailhead is near here which marks the end of the segment. There is also a bus stop where hikers can can utilize the free bus system to get around Breckenridge and Frisco.