Colorado Trail Seg. 9 Tennessee Pass to Hagerman Pass Road

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

Colorado Trail Segment 9 stretches 14.8 miles from Tennessee Pass to Hagerman Pass Road in central Colorado. This out-and-back route features 2,455 feet of elevation gain, offering a moderately challenging day hike or backpacking option for intermediate to advanced hikers. The trail traverses federal land managed by a federal agency, passing through high alpine terrain characteristic of Colorado's Continental Divide region. Starting at Tennessee Pass, the route climbs steadily through subalpine forest before breaking into open tundra as elevation increases. Hikers can expect rocky, exposed terrain at higher elevations with panoramic views of surrounding peaks. This segment is part of the larger Colorado Trail system, which spans nearly 500 miles across the state. The high elevation and exposed ridge sections make this trail susceptible to weather changes, particularly afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months. Snow can linger into early summer at higher elevations. Water sources and trail conditions vary seasonally, so current conditions should be checked before departure. The out-and-back format allows hikers flexibility to turn back at any point based on time, weather, and fitness level. Best hiking season runs from mid-July through September.