CT - Segment 26: Bolam Pass Road to Hotel Draw Road

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Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Coming in at just about 11 miles, segment 26 is the shortest segment on the Colorado Trail. Although lacking in distance, segment 26 still provides the spectacular vistas and beautiful trail that you'd expect from any other stretch of the CT.

• Colorado Trail (CT)

The northern end of this segment is near Bolsam Pass along Hermosa Park Road (FS 578). The southern end is at Hotel Draw Road (FS 550). A high-clearance 4x4 is recommended for accessing either of these. Note that this trail is open to hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and equestrians, but not to motorized use.

This stretch of the CT follows Blackhawk Trail #501. From the northern end, it begins at small Celebration Lake and Bolam Pass Road. The trail then climbs steadily uphill until it comes to a spectacular meadow area where the views stretch for miles toward distant peaks. The trail then skirts around rocky Hermosa Peak, closely follows a ridge line, and eventually heads toward Blackhawk Pass. The trail up to the Pass is steep, but only for a short distance. From the top of Blackhawk the views are incredible.

The trail then descends back into the forest where there are a few good water sources. If you are only section hiking segment 26, water shouldn't be a concern. But if you are carrying onward into segment 27, be aware that a long waterless stretch lies ahead. On a dry year, Straight Creek may be the last water until Taylor Lake, some 22 miles ahead. Even on a normal year you'll be faced with a minimum water carry of 14 miles, so be sure to top off here!

The Colorado Trail then continues gently down the last couple of miles until it arrives at Hotel Draw Road. This marks the end of Segment 26 and the beginning of segment 27. - Description by Mike Windsor, Outdoor Project