Colorado Trail Segment 25

Cappie’s Scoop: I’ve been on different parts of the Colorado Trail and this part climbed up the mountains which was really cool! There weren’t a lot of trees but the weather was good so I didn’t need the shade. I saw some hoomans on mountain bikes and they were going very slow up the hills so I had time to say hello as I ran past them. Mom and I agreed that the next time we go back, we will hike much farther on this trail to see what else is out there! Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: We parked our car and started this hike at Molas Pass just south of Silverton. The summit parking lot is at 10,912 ft, has gorgeous views and connects to the Colorado Trail. You could also start this trail at the Little Molas Lake parking lot near the campground. The difference is less than a mile from our start and you avoid crossing highway 550. But we wanted to hike past the lake so that’s why we started at the summit lot. The incline up into the mountains is very gradual and not steep at all but we rated it moderate due to the elevation you start at. You can take this trail all the way to Durango but we decided to only hike a portion and return the way we came.

Directions: From the town of Durango head north on US-550 for about 40 miles until you see the turn off on your right for Molas Pass Overlook/Summit parking lot.