The Colorado Trail: Chalk Creek Trailhead to US-50

Salida, CO

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The Colorado Trail: Chalk Creek Trailhead to US-50

This segment travels through the southern end of the Sawatch Range. Although there are still several fourteeners nearby (Antero, Shavano & Tabeguache), the CT takes a much less rigorous route through the area. After the initial climb of 900 feet in the first 1.5 mile to get out of the Chalk Creek Valley, the CT ambles along between the 9,000 and 10,000-foot levels for the next 16 miles, before starting a descent to US50. Water sources are not quite as frequent as in previous sections, but there is still plenty of it. Good campsites are not a problem either. So, amble along and enjoy the great views of the lower Arkansas valley and the northern Sangre de Cristo Range.

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Driving Directions

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Directions to: The Colorado Trail: Chalk Creek Trailhead to US-50

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Trail Statistics & Information

ActivityHiking
Nearby CitySalida
Length20.9 mi
Elevation Gain3,320 ft
SeasonBest summer and fall
Trailhead Elevation8,360 ft
Top Elevation9,880 ft
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