Fee Area via Colorado Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate one way trail to Kenosha Pass Campground in Pike National Forest.

This trail can also easily be hiked from the Kenosha Pass parking area, making a great out-and-back day trip.

The trail is relatively moderate with a few ascents throughout. Hiking east to west (from the Kenosha Pass parking area) the trail starts off in an aspen grove, moving into a cool forest, then finally around mile 1 opens up to views of surrounding mountains. From there the trail follows an open field and descends into more aspen groves and wooded pine forest. The trail then continues to descend into more aspens and finally opens up into the large open fields. From here the trail follows a single track in these open fields until connecting to a local forest service road. The trail continues as the Colorado Trail Segment 6, or you can turn around and head back to Kenosha Pass.

During the summer, this is a popular place for hikers and bikers alike. The wildflowers are in full bloom by early to mid-July, with many Columbines scattered throughout the aspen groves.

During the fall brings more sight-seers wanting to glimpse the aspen gold that surrounds this area.

During the winter, the trail can be a quiet and peaceful place. The trail is usually packed down during winter, so typically no snow shoes required if you stay on the trail.

During the spring, there is typically lingering snow through April. The trail can be icy in shaded spots but muddy and slippery in exposed spots.

Please take note: when hiking east to west, the trail gets hard to find around mile 2-2.5. Blown down trees at some point in 2020 and during winter it can be hard to find the packed down trail. Recommend using GAIA to keep on track!

See the Kenosha Pass information page provided by the USDA Forest Service for more information about this area.

Getting Started

Parking is at the top of Kenosha Pass south-bound on route 285. Parking is on the left and right, but the trailhead to this trail is on the right. Trailhead is several feet from parking area.

Taking Children

Children can do well on this hike. Most ascents and descents are moderate and not too difficult. Families have a good time taking their children especially in the summer with wildflowers in bloom and fall with aspen gold colors. Note that winter hiking may be more challenging for children to keep their footing with snow and ice on this trail generally starting in October and ending in April/May. Rating for children: 8