Colorado Trail Seg. 13 North Cottonwood Creek Road to Chalk Creek Trailhead

No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.

Colorado Trail Segment 13 stretches 23.0 miles from North Cottonwood Creek Road to Chalk Creek Trailhead near Colorado. This out-and-back route features 3,948 feet of elevation gain, offering a moderate to strenuous hiking experience through federal wilderness. The trail traverses varied terrain across federally managed land, providing hikers with exposure to the region's natural landscape and mountain environment. This segment is part of the larger Colorado Trail system, a well-established route that connects multiple trailheads across the state. The substantial elevation gain over the 23-mile distance requires solid fitness preparation and allows hikers to experience significant changes in scenery and vegetation zones. The out-and-back format gives hikers flexibility to turn around at any point if conditions or energy levels warrant modification of their plans. The federal management ensures maintained trail conditions and access to these public lands. This segment appeals to hikers seeking a longer day hike or multi-day backpacking option with considerable elevation gain and views of Colorado's mountain terrain.