535Miles
30–42Days
89,000 ftGain
ThruType
Permits
System
Colorado Trail Foundation registration (free)No lottery, no reservation. Register at coloradotrail.org — free. Some segments pass through wilderness areas with group size limits (max 15). Afternoon lightning is near-daily July–August — plan to be below treeline by 1pm.Apply or read more
Cost
Free
Bear storage
Not required — hang is sufficient
Season
Best
Mid-July – mid-September
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PeakShoulderClosed
On trail
Water
Excellent in high country. Lower Denver-area segments can be dry. Filter all sources.
Resupply
Every 50–80 miles via road crossings. Breckenridge, Salida, Lake City, and Silverton are best.
Notes
Crosses the Rockies 28 times. The San Juan Mountains (last 200 miles) are the most spectacular and remote section. Multiple alternates available including the spectacular Collegiate Peaks alternate.
Elevation
5,500 ftHigh 14,000 ft
Resupply towns
Denver / Waterton Canyon
Bailey
Breckenridge
Copper Mtn
Leadville
Salida
Lake City
Silverton
Durango
Recommended gear