If you think of the Colorado River, you might have the mighty wide river gorge flowing through the Grand Canyon in mind. But up here, in the mountains of the Colorado State is where this famous river is just a small alpine stream. From the parking lot, it is just a short walk to the very first miles of the Colorado River.

Vincent Reboul

May 3, 2022

Hiking

The Colorado River here is an Alpine torrent. We are very far from the Grand Canyon in Arizona, where the river is very imposing. What is noticeable along this path that goes up the river, is that the wildlife is very present, and you can sometimes see herds of Elk, and Moose.

Melissa Foerster

November 9, 2023

Running

Far from the powerful current of the river flowing through the Grand Canyon, this is where the Colorado River begins. From here, it continues on through an impressive seven US and two Mexican states. Keep an eye out for moose and elk, common to the area.

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Routes here

Best Hiking Routes to Colorado River Trail

4.7

(6)

hikers

1. Lulu City Site via Colorado Trail — Rocky Mountain National Park

11.7km

03:12

180m

Gentle riverside hike through dense forest to discover the peaceful ruins of a forgotten mining town.

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Moderate

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2. Lake of the Clouds via Colorado River & Grand Ditch Trails — Rocky Mountain National Park

20.3km

06:27

640m

Alpine lake hike through boulder fields to a secluded cirque beneath cloud-named peaks.

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Hard

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3. Colorado River Trail – Red Mountain Trail Junction loop from Shipler Mountain

3.44km

00:54

20m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Details

Informations

Distance 734 m

Uphill 10 m

Downhill 10 m

Weather

Today

Sunday 1 February

3°C

-12°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Location: Grand County, Colorado, United States

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Mount Ida Trail

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Alpine Visitor Center, Trail Ridge Road

Long Meadows Trail

Baker Gulch Trail

Emerald Lake

Sheep Rock

Colorado River Trail

1. Lulu City Site via Colorado Trail — Rocky Mountain National Park

2. Lake of the Clouds via Colorado River & Grand Ditch Trails — Rocky Mountain National Park

3. Colorado River Trail – Red Mountain Trail Junction loop from Shipler Mountain

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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