Cutthroat

Managing agency

Rio Grande NF — Conejos Peak RD

Cutthroat is a 12.3-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near Colorado within Rio Grande National Forest, managed by the Conejos Peak Ranger District. This trail offers a unique hiking experience with no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers seeking a relatively flat route through the national forest. The out-and-back format means hikers will travel 6.15 miles to the turnaround point before retracing their steps. The lack of elevation change distinguishes this trail from many others in the region, providing a different kind of hiking challenge focused on distance rather than vertical climb. Rio Grande National Forest encompasses diverse ecosystems and scenic landscapes across south-central Colorado. The Conejos Peak Ranger District manages this area, which features varied terrain and natural features typical of the upper Rio Grande watershed. This trail is suitable for hikers looking for a moderate-distance hike without significant elevation gain, though the full 12.3-mile distance will require adequate preparation and endurance.