Thru-Hiking the Colorado Trail: Unforgettable Adventures on Segments 6-9

Over the month of July Liam and I will be embarking on a thru-hike of the Colorado Trail. Throughout this hike I will attempt to share some of our trail experiences here with you all, with the first one being now. As we traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Colorado Trail, every step becomes a memory and every mile strengthens the bond with your hiking partner. Here we will dive into the exciting adventures and challenges that await us on segments 6-9 of the Colorado Trail, as my 18-year-old son Liam, my English Springer Spaniel Willa and I continue our epic journey from Denver to Durango.

Segment 6: Kenosha Pass to Gold Hill

Segment 6 of the Colorado Trail is one of the longest segments on the trail and a picturesque stretch that takes you through the stunning Lost Creek Wilderness. As we ascend from the iconic Kenosha Pass, we are surrounded by a sea of vibrant wildflowers and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. The trail meanders through dense forests, crosses crystal-clear creeks, and rewards us with breathtaking views from the summit of Georgia Pass. Be prepared for some challenging climbs and tricky descents, but the incredible beauty of the landscape makes every step worth it.

Segment 7: Gold Hill to Breckenridge

Segment 7 of the Colorado Trail presents a diverse mix of alpine meadows, dense forests, and charming mountain towns. You'll navigate through historic mining sites and witness remnants of Colorado's rich mining heritage. The trail treated us to sweeping panoramic views as we ascend the majestic Tenmile Range. Toward the end of this segment, we descend into the vibrant town of Breckenridge, where you can replenish your supplies, indulge in a warm meal, and experience the welcoming mountain culture.

Segment 8: Breckenridge to Copper Mountain

As we embarked on segment 8, we left Breckenridge behind and traversed a rugged landscape filled with alpine lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and towering peaks. The trail took us through the stunning White River National Forest, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The challenging climbs tested our endurance, but the breathtaking scenery and the sense of accomplishment at the summit of Searle Pass left us in awe of the beauty that we had before us. Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains before descending into Copper Mountain.

Segment 9: Copper Mountain to Tennessee Pass

Segment 9 is a true wilderness experience that showcases the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains. As we hiked through the vast and pristine wilderness of the Holy Cross Wilderness, we encounter high alpine meadows, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes. This segment offers a sense of solitude and tranquility that allowed us to immerse ourselves in nature. The challenging climbs and descents continues to test our physical and mental strength, but the rewarding views and the sense of accomplishment made it all worthwhile.

Though this is a short post, as I’m doing it from my phone, in conclusion, Thru-hiking the Colorado Trail with Liam has been an incredible adventure, filled with unforgettable experiences and shared moments. As we explored segments 6-9 of the trail, we marveled at the stunning landscapes, pushed our limits, and continue to create lifelong memories together. The Colorado Trail offers a unique opportunity to bond with your loved ones while immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.

As we continue our thru-hike, we look forward to the challenges and rewards that lie ahead on the remaining segments of the trail. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and insights as we make our way towards Durango. Remember, the true magic of a thru-hike is not just reaching the destination but cherishing every step of the journey and the moments shared with your hiking partner.

So lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and join us on this remarkable adventure along the Colorado Trail. Let's create memories that will last a lifetime as we explore the breathtaking landscapes and embrace the spirit of adventure. Happy Trails!!