Trail description

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This is a high elevation trail where you will spend most of your time between 10 to 13.000 feet, 

(3 to 4000 meters). You start at Waterton Canyon, south of Denver. The first couple of days is about climbing and getting used to the altitude. Then you pass through the ski areas between Copper Mountain and Aspen.

At Twin Lakes the trail splits so you have to make a choice how to get through the Collegiate mountains. You can take the lower more accesible route or go high up and take the west route, which is rough, steep and very remote. If you are fit, we certainly recommend the west trail.

After the Collegiates, the trails come together again and the mountains become more friendly, But not for long.

Before you know it you head straight into the spectacular San Juan mountain range.

And by the time you reach Durango you have climbed a total of 27 km, that’s 90.000 feet.

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Because of the altitude, this trail is only recommended in summer. But the end of summer brings the monsoon rains. Which start in the early afternoon. So pick your date not too late, otherwise you might get rain or snowed upon.

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The trail also takes you close to some really beautifull old mining towns. Like Breckenridge, Leadville, Lake City and Silverton. You have to make stops to resupply anyway so make sure not to miss those old Wild West towns.