| About Pike National Forest |
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| Colorado Trail (Waterton Canyon to South Platte) |
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Length, One-way:
10 Miles
USGS Maps:
Kassler, Platte Canyon
Recommended Season:
Summer to Fall
Handicapped Accessible:
no
Ending Elevation:
6,400 Feet
Elevation Gain:
800 Feet
Difficulty:
Difficult
Beginning Elevation:
5,600 Feet
Trail Number:
1,776
Reservation:
No
Season:
January - December
From Colorado Springs, Northern Access: Drive north on Interstate 25 to the Sedalia exit (Highway 85). Pass Sedalia and continue 6 miles to Titan Road. Turn west (left) and travel almost 6 miles to Waterton Road and signs for the recreation area.
Location Information
This segment of the Colorado Trail is the gateway to the state. It leads users 16 miles through Waterton Canyon to the South Platte townsite. From the Waterton Canyon Trailhead visitors will find a variety of recreation opportunities. Many mountain bikers use the first 6 miles of this section so backpackers beware. No dogs or camping for the first 6 miles due to Denver Water Board regulations.From Waterton Canyon the trail climbs high above the South Platte River offering spectacular views of the surrounding terrain. A variety of ecosystems are encountered from thick oakbrush patches to stands of ponderosa pine, Douglas fir and spruce. Aspen adds color to the fall color scheme. The trail follows the South Platte River to the Strontia Springs Reservoir where it intersects with the Carpenter Peak Trail. The Colorado Trail continues south and begins to climb. The trail switchbacks then crosses Bear Creek. Shortly after crossing Bear Creek the trail becomes wider and forks. Stay to the right. For the next .5 miles the trail shares its path with motorcycle trail #692. This trail will intersect with smaller trail that climbs to the right. Stay to the right and follow the smaller trail. In another mile the motorcycle trail crosses the Colorado Trail for the final time. The trail climbs for the next 2 miles until it reaches its high point at 7,280'. From here the trail descends to South Platte.
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