About Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11)
Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11) is a hard hiking trail near Twin Lakes in Lake County, Colorado.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.
What “Hard” Means
Steep, technical, or long. Requires good fitness and experience.
Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.
What to Pack & Wear
Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 10 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 6)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🔦
Headlamp + spare batteries
Long days can run late — never rely on phone flashlight alone.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Trail Safety in Colorado
Trail conditions in Colorado change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:
- Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
- Tell someone your plan and expected return time
- Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
- Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11)?
Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11) is rated Hard. Steep, technical, or long — good fitness and experience recommended.
Are dogs allowed on Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11)?
Yes — dogs are allowed on Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11). Always pack out waste and follow local rules.
Can I ride a bike on Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11)?
Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail.
Are horses allowed on Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11)?
Yes — horseback riding is permitted.
What is the trail surface on Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11)?
The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.
When is the best time to hike Continental Divide Trail and Colorado Trail (Segment 11)?
Colorado has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.
References & Maps