The Collegiate West is an 80-mile high alpine section of both the Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail that traverses the western slope of the Sawatch Range through the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. Added to the Colorado Trail in 2012, this route is considered one of the most scenic stretches of trail in Colorado, spending extended miles above treeline with unobstructed views of multiple 14,000-foot peaks including Huron Peak, the Three Apostles, Missouri Mountain, Mount Belford, and Mount Oxford.
This is the more challenging alternative to the Collegiate East route, gaining 19,800 feet of elevation across 83 miles while never dropping below 8,000 feet and frequently climbing above 12,000 feet. The trail follows the Continental Divide closely, offering epic alpine scenery but also significant exposure to weather. It's best suited for experienced backpackers comfortable with navigation above treeline, early alpine starts to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, and extended periods of self-reliance on a remote route with few bail-out options.
The route runs from Twin Lakes (southwest of Leadville) south to Monarch Pass (southwest of Salida), connecting two major highway access points with resupply opportunities. Well-marked with rock cairns through alpine sections and featuring plentiful water during summer months, the Collegiate West provides an outstanding wilderness experience in the heart of Colorado's high country.
No advance permits are required for the Collegiate West. Free self-issuing wilderness permits are available at trailheads entering the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness - fill out the form, leave half at the station, and carry the other half with you. The USFS encourages voluntary registration for search and rescue purposes.
Regulations include: - Maximum group size of 15 people or a combination of 25 people and pack/saddle animals - Dogs must be leashed at all times (except working stock dogs or hunting dogs during legal hunting) - Camp at least 100 feet from lakes, streams, and trails - Campfires prohibited at Lake Ann and discouraged above treeline (krummholz trees are centuries old and critical to alpine ecosystem survival) - Pack out all waste following Leave No Trace principles - Food storage required to prevent wildlife conflicts (bear hang minimum, Ursack or bear canister recommended for protection from marmots, rodents, and bears)
Check current fire restrictions with the Pike-San Isabel National Forest before your trip, as seasonal Stage 1 or Stage 2 restrictions may prohibit campfires entirely during dry periods.
Late July through early September offers the most reliable conditions. The Collegiate West harbors more snow than the Collegiate East due to higher elevations and greater exposure, typically remaining impassable until late June or early July. Snow can linger on north-facing slopes and passes well into summer, with snowbanks reported near Lake Ann Pass even in August.
July-August provides the warmest weather and most reliable water sources, but brings intense afternoon thunderstorms that develop almost daily. Plan to cross passes and complete exposed sections before noon. Wildflowers peak in mid-July through early August across alpine meadows.
Early September is often considered ideal - mosquitoes are gone after a few freezing nights, afternoon thunderstorms decrease in frequency and intensity, aspen and willow display fall colors in lower elevations, and summer crowds have diminished. However, prepare for cold nights (freezing temperatures are common) and potential early-season snowstorms.
Snow returns between late September and mid-October, making the route dangerous without winter mountaineering skills. The trail is generally snow-covered and inaccessible from late October through May or June.
Water sources are plentiful during summer months, with numerous streams and alpine lakes throughout the route. Even in September, water remains abundant along most sections. All water should be filtered or treated.
Dry sections to note: - From upper Lake Ann to Monarch Crest Store: 8 miles with no reliable water - Miles 8.9-12.9 in the Lake Ann Pass area can be dry depending on season - Start and end of some segments may require carrying extra capacity
The longest dry stretches typically don't exceed 8 miles, but late-season hikers should verify current water reports, as high-elevation sources dry up faster than lower-elevation streams.
Resupply options: - Twin Lakes General Store (northern terminus): Full resupply, hiker-friendly store accepting resupply boxes (USPS, FedEx, UPS). Average-sized boxes held free, $5 for large/multiple packages. Offers 8% discount on food/beverages, 4% on gear. Open late May to early October. - Buena Vista (mile ~35 via Cottonwood Pass/Highway 306): Better for Collegiate East hikers, but accessible from Collegiate West. Full grocery options at City Market and LaGree's. Hitchhiking from Cottonwood Pass can be slow on this quieter road. - Monarch Pass/Highway 50 (southern terminus): Monarch Crest Gift Shop provides limited resupply options. Monarch Spur RV Park about 1 mile east. - Salida: Most hikers resupply here - 22 miles from Monarch Pass. Full services including Safeway, Walmart, outdoor outfitter (Salida Mountain Sports), post office, restaurants, hotels, and laundromat. Best accessed via hitchhike from Highway 50.
Lightning exposure: The most serious hazard. Extended above-treeline sections during July-August thunderstorm season create objectively dangerous situations. Afternoon storms develop regularly with lightning, hail, and strong winds. Start hiking early (dawn) to cross passes and complete exposed sections before noon when storms typically build. If storm clouds approach while above treeline, descend immediately and seek lower terrain.
Weather exposure: With most of the route above 10,000 feet and extended sections above 12,000 feet, you'll face rapid weather changes. Rain can turn to snow even in July, temperatures can plummet quickly, and strong winds create dangerous wind chill. Carry insulating layers, waterproof protection, and be prepared for below-freezing nights throughout the season.
Remote terrain with few bailouts: The Collegiate West is significantly more remote than the Collegiate East, with minimal road crossings over 80+ miles. Few realistic exit options exist if weather deteriorates or emergencies arise. Hikers must be self-reliant with navigation skills, first aid knowledge, and emergency preparedness.
Navigation above treeline: While the route is well-marked with rock cairns through alpine sections, visibility can drop to near-zero in storms or fog. Cairns can be difficult to locate in whiteout conditions. Carry navigation tools (GPS, map, compass) and know how to use them.
River crossings: The Middle Fork of the South Arkansas River requires crossing, which can be challenging during spring runoff (June-early July) or after heavy rain. Early morning crossings when water is lower are safer. Other creek crossings exist but are generally straightforward except during peak flow periods.
Altitude: Starting elevations around 9,500-10,000 feet and frequently climbing above 12,000 feet can cause altitude sickness in those not properly acclimatized. Allow time to adjust before attempting this route, stay hydrated, and recognize symptoms of altitude illness.
Wildlife: Black bears are present but encounters are uncommon. Mountain lions inhabit the region and are most active at dusk and dawn. Marmots and ground squirrels aggressively chew through packs and food bags left unattended - store all food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or proper bear hangs well away from camp.
Northern Terminus - Twin Lakes: - From Denver International Airport: 2.5 hours (100 miles) west via I-70 to Copper Mountain, then south on Highway 24 to Highway 82 east - From Colorado Springs: 2 hours northwest via Highway 24 - Twin Lakes is accessible year-round along Highway 82 between Leadville and Independence Pass (though the pass section closes October-May) - Parking available at Twin Lakes Dam and trailhead areas - Twin Lakes General Store serves as a central hub for hikers
Southern Terminus - Monarch Pass: - Located on Highway 50 at 11,312 feet - Large parking area at Monarch Crest Store/gondola lot - About 22 miles west of Salida, 45 miles east of Gunnison - Highway 50 remains open year-round (unlike many Colorado high passes)
Nearest airports: - Denver International Airport (DEN): 2-2.5 hours, major international hub - Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE): 45 minutes from Twin Lakes, but seasonal (CO-82 east section closed October-May) - Colorado Springs Airport (COS): 2 hours to Twin Lakes - Leadville-Lake County Airport: North America's highest public airport (9,934 ft), private aircraft only
Shuttle services: The Colorado Trail Foundation maintains a list of shuttle services and trail angels accessible through their website's request form. Advanced arrangements are strongly recommended. Local services include: - Contact Colorado Trail Foundation for current shuttle driver list - Salida Chamber of Commerce hiker webpage lists Monarch Pass shuttle options - Private shuttle companies operate in the Leadville-Twin Lakes area
Hitchhiking is possible but can be slow, especially on Highway 306 near Cottonwood Pass. Colorado drivers are generally aware of the Colorado Trail and often helpful to hikers.
Road conditions: All major highway access points are paved and accessible to standard vehicles. Forest roads to some mid-route access points may require high-clearance vehicles, especially early season.
Timing your hiking day: Start by 5:30-6:00 AM when crossing passes or hiking exposed sections. Afternoon thunderstorms typically build between noon and 2 PM. Early starts allow you to be below treeline or at camp by early afternoon. This daily rhythm is essential for safety on the Collegiate West.
Camp selection strategy: Scout for camping spots before reaching passes. The section from mile 8.9 to 11.9 near Lake Ann Pass has limited camping, so plan accordingly. Lake Ann itself offers good camping with a campfire ban. Texas Creek drainage has numerous excellent sites with water throughout. Above 11,500 feet, firewood is scarce or nonexistent - bring sufficient stove fuel.
Water carry: Even though water is generally plentiful, carry 2-3 liter capacity for the 8-mile dry stretch before Monarch Crest Store and other dry sections. Late-season hikers should carry extra capacity as high-elevation sources dry up.
Acclimation: Don't underestimate the altitude. Consider spending a night or two in Leadville (10,200 ft) or camping at lower elevations before starting. The constant high elevation is more challenging than brief summit pushes.
Weather monitoring: Check forecasts before starting and ask locals about recent afternoon storm patterns. Some hikers carry a small weather radio. Watch for building cumulus clouds mid-morning as a sign to expedite progress toward lower terrain.
Gear recommendations: Bring warmer sleep system than you'd use at lower elevations (nights regularly dip to freezing even in August). Waterproof jacket and pants are essential. Trekking poles help with frequent steep sections and potential creek crossings. Consider microspikes for early season snow crossings.
Notable viewpoints: Hope Pass (12,548 ft) offers extraordinary views of the Collegiate Peaks including Missouri Mountain, Mount Belford, Mount Oxford, and Huron Peak. Lake Ann Pass provides stunning scenery above 12,500 feet. The Clear Creek Valley descent from Hope Pass is spectacular.
14er opportunities: Huron Peak (14,012 ft) is accessible from the trail and considered one of the best 14er options for those wanting to bag a summit during the hike. Class 2 route from near the trail.
Peak wildflowers: Mid-July through early August showcases alpine wildflowers across meadows and basins. September brings brilliant aspen gold in lower-elevation sections.
Trail condition updates: Check the Colorado Trail Foundation website and Facebook page before departure for current conditions, closures, fire restrictions, and recent trail reports. The Continental Divide Trail Coalition also maintains current information for this shared section.
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