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Colorado
9.7 mi
Distance
2,811 ft
Gain
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S. Zapata
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
S. Zapata is a 9.7-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the town of Colorado. Managed by the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest's Grand Valley Ranger District, this trail offers 2,811 feet of elevation gain, making it a moderately challenging hike. The out-and-back format allows hikers to turn around at any point, providing flexibility for those looking to adjust their distance based on fitness level or time constraints. The sustained elevation gain means hikers should prepare for a gradual to steep climb, particularly noticeable on the return descent. This trail is situated within GMUG National Forest lands, which span across western Colorado and offer diverse terrain ranging from piñon-juniper forests to alpine ecosystems depending on elevation. The S. Zapata trail's specific characteristics make it suitable for hikers with moderate to advanced experience seeking a substantial cardiovascular workout. For current trail conditions, closures, or specific seasonal restrictions, contact the Grand Valley Ranger District directly, as conditions can vary by season.
Raspberry
~3 min drive
7.1 mi · Moderate
Lily Lake
~6 min drive
6.6 mi · Easy
Zapata
~7 min drive
3.7 mi · Hard
Ute
~9 min drive
6.8 mi · Hard
Mosca Pass
~14 min drive
<p>Just above the dunefield are forests of aspen, pine, fir, and spruce. The easiest hiking access to forest in the national park is in Mosca Pass, on the Montville Nature Trail and Mosca Pass Trail. On these trails, you are walking in the footsteps of Pleistocene mammoth hunt…
High Dune on First Ridge
~16 min drive
The high dune on the first ridge is neither the highest in elevation nor the tallest in the dunefield, but it looks that way from the main parking lot. This is the most common destination in the dunefield, providing a great view of the entire dunefield. It is about 692 feet (2…
Star Dune
~16 min drive
Star Dune is currently tied with Hidden Dune as the two tallest dunes in North America. It is a majestic dune now measuring 741 feet (225 m) from base to summit. While it can be hiked from the summit of High Dune on First Ridge, it's more direct, and less up and down, to acces…
Hidden Dune
~19 min drive
Hidden Dune is currently tied with Star Dune as the two tallest dunes in North America at 741 feet/225 m. Hidden Dune is named for its remote location in the dunefield, where it is not visible from most of the main visitor day use areas. It is even hidden from much of the high…
Sand Creek Basin
~38 min drive
<p>Sand Creek Basin is part of the alpine watershed of Great Sand Dunes National Preserve. A longer drive and hike is required to reach these lakes and peaks, but the mountain scenery is worth the effort. Check with a ranger for conditions before travel. Snow may block these t…
Comanche
~51 min drive
8.8 mi · Expert
