CDT: Timberline Lake to Tennessee Pass (CO Sec. 25)

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Heading north from Timberline Lake Trailhead, this section of the CDT overlaps with Segment 9 of the Colorado Trail. It begins with a steep 2-mile climb to get above treeline, then descends past beautiful lakes, including an access point to Bear Lake. Entering the Holy Cross Wilderness, the trail offers stunning views and frequent descents as it enters a broad valley. Good camp spots are easy to find, especially after leaving the wilderness area where the trail traces West Tennessee Creek. The section concludes with easy forest hiking to Tennessee Pass, where Leadville makes the nearest trail town via Highway 24.

• Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT)

Colorado Section 25 begins from Timberline Lake Trailhead. The trailhead isn't located directly on the lake, but it is a popular spot where you'll likely see a lot of vehicles parked (especially if here on a weekend).

The trail then ascends rather steeply and steadily for the next 2 miles up to a high point. You'll then descend and pass by a couple of small but beautiful lakes right beside the trail. There will also be a turn off where you can access the popular Bear Lake.

You'll continue onward and up to another high point. This is where you start getting into the best of the Holy Cross Wilderness. There are some great views as you continue, but also some steep descents. Thankfully these descents are relatively short. If hiking during the summer months beware that the mosquitoes are notoriously bad through this stretch.

You'll then follow beside a stream as you leave the Holy Cross Wilderness. Eventually the trail will come to West Tennessee Creek, a good water source with some camping nearby. From here on out it is enjoyable and easy hiking through the forest.

As you near Tennessee Pass you'll come to a swinging bench right alongside the trail. It is a wonderful place for a sit. You'll also notice some large cabins in the distance, unfortunately these are rental cabins and not for hikers. Section 25 then ends at Tennessee Pass, where the town of Leadville is accessible to the south via Highway 24. - Description by Mike Windsor, Outdoor Project