Crag Crest Lower Loop Trail #711.1A

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Lake · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is the connector trail between the East and West trailheads for the Grand Mesa Crag Crest Loop Trail - 711-1A. This section can easily be done in either direction on its own, but is best done as part of the loop. 711-1A has easier grade climbs and better trail surface than the crest itself, but you'll miss out on the views and the feeling of flying through the sky.

From the East trailhead, follow signs for the Crag Crest Loop, and then head left at the first junction. The trail will weave through some small burned areas (trail maintenance is usually very good) and along the edge of some beautiful lakes. There are two short climbs, but most of the trail is on mildly technical singletrack cutting across meadows.

When you reach a (usually) dry river bed there is a doubletrack road that cuts across. Follow the trail markers across the doubletrack to stay on course. After the doubletrack there are a couple more social trails heading off to the left, stay on the most prominent singletrack. About 0.5 miles from the West trailhead you'll come to another junction, go right ~100 yards to another trail junction and then go left to get to the West trailhead backtracking the beginning of the trail.