This section of the Colorado Trail extends 11 miles from Kenosha Pass to Georgia Pass in the Pike National Forest. It was the first official loop of the Colorado Trail called the West Jefferson Loop Trail. Beginning at the Kenosha Pass Campground walk northwest for approximately 4.5 miles. The trail remains relatively level between 10,000' and 10,300' in elevation. After dropping into the second drainage hikers will pass Jefferson Hill on the left then descend into the Jefferson Creek drainage. This is a highly developed with several campgrounds. The trail crosses Forest Road 401; then crosses the West Jefferson Trail and begins to ascend. This segment of the Colorado Trail reaches its high point at 10,800 as it crosses the Continental Divide immediately east of Georgia Pass. From here the Colorado Trail exits the Pike National Forest and enters the Arapaho National Forest.
Directions from Fairplay: Access from Beaver Ponds Picnic Ground is located approximately 22 miles northeast of the town of Fairplay, Colorado. Visitors may reach this area by taking State Highway 285 north from Fairplay 17 miles to the town of Jefferson. Then drive west on County Road 35 for approximately 2 miles to Forest Developed Road 37. Travel northwest on FDR 37 for approximately 3 miles to the picnic ground.
Directions from Grant: Access from Kenosha Pass Campground is located approximately seven miles southwest of the small town of Grant, Colorado. Drive west from Grant on Highway 285 to reach the campground.
Seasonal Information:
Normally Open:
May through October .
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