The Colorado Trail covers 567 miles across the state of Colorado starting in the southwest metro of Denver at Waterton Canyon and ends in the southeast corner of the state in Durango! It is broken down into 33 segments giving you the opportunity to access and explore from all over the state!
I am fortunate to live close to the start at Waterton Canyon and wanted to explore a large portion of Segment One of the Colorado Trail on a single morning outing. Segment One is 16.8 miles and 2,830 feet of elevation gain. I covered 9 miles one way during this outing. I rode my gravel bike up to the dam (mile 6), locked up my bike, and started my hike until mile 9. The miles up Waterton Canyon are some of my favorites! The landscape changes dramatically when you hit the single track around mile 6.5 where you enter a forest!
Good to Know
Distance: 16.8 mile one way
Trails: Colorado Trail
Elevation Gain: 2,830 feet
Terrain: Gravel loop option, cement loop option, and pavement loop option
Parking: Available on the side streets around the park
Facilities: Available at a few spots within the park
Fun Fact: If you can coordinate, the best way to explore Segment One is to have a vehicle or ride waiting for you at the end – allowing you to cover most distance one way!
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