COLORADO TRAIL GUIDE – BIKEPACKING

Embarking on the Colorado Trail Race (CTR) is a thrilling yet daunting endeavor. The sheer length, high altitudes, and challenging terrain can seem intimidating, but with thorough preparation, you can transform anxiety into confidence. It all starts with having the right information and a well-structured plan to guide you through each stage of your journey.

This page provides a straightforward overview of the Colorado Trail Race. During my own experiences on the CTR, I identified the need for a guide specifically tailored for bikepackers. To address this, I’ve segmented the route into simple sections to help you easily grasp the essentials. This page is part of a comprehensive guide designed to let you focus on riding your bike rather than spending countless hours searching for information.

Wondering where to start? This Colorado Trail Race Guide is an excellent entry point. For more detailed information, explore our CTR Planning Guide and Resupply Guide. You’ll find in-depth resources on resupply, transportation, gear, and much more. Dive into our resources and equip yourself for a successful adventure!

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Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey

The Project conducts an ongoing rider survey to assist new riders in selecting the right gear for the Colorado Trail Race. Embarking on an adventure like the CTR can be daunting, and the planning process overwhelming. We hope this survey will aid new riders in their preparation and execution of their Colorado Trail ride, ensuring they are better equipped for their adventure.

If you haven’t taken the Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey yet, we encourage you to participate through the links below.

***Please pay close attention to the examples provided for questions requiring typed answers. If responses are not entered exactly as shown in the examples, I will need to correct them, which can skew the results. Thank you in advance!

TAKE SURVEY 1

Covers: bikes, suspension, tires & wheels, drivetrain, and Components.

SURVEY 1 RESULTS

TAKE SURVEY 2

Covers: navigation planning, camping, logistic/travel, clothes, and more.

SURVEY 2 RESULTS

Stats

DISTANCE

527 Miles (848km)

DIFFICULTY

9/10

ELEVATION +

70,000+ Feet (21,336m)

MAX ELEVA.

13,271 Feet (4,045m)

SINGLE TRACK

55%

TIME REQUIRED

3-14 Days

UNPAVED

80%

Time of Year

July to September

Race Date

August 11, 2024

4 am Waterton Canyon

Closest Towns to Start/Finish

Littleton & Durango

Race Records

Male: Timon Fish (2023) 3:16:13
Female: Katya Rakhmatulina (2023) 5:01:53

Overview

Colorado Trail Race Overview: Conquer the Ultimate Challenge

The Colorado Trail is a beast of a trail, but don’t let that deter you from bikepacking it. This multi-use trail spans 500 miles (529 +/- miles by bike) from Waterton Canyon in Littleton to Durango, Colorado, showcasing breathtaking beauty at nearly every turn. With an average elevation exceeding 10,000 feet, your lungs and legs will be put to the test. Don’t forget your rain jacket—afternoon thunderstorms are a common occurrence.

The Colorado Trail Race (CTR) will have you traversing six National Forests, six wilderness areas, eight mountain ranges, and five major river systems. Known as one of the most challenging and scenic bikepacking routes in the United States, the CTR is a true test of endurance and skill.

The Challenge of Hike-A-Bike
During the length of the Colorado Trail Race, riders will encountered an average of 70 total miles of Hike-A-Bike (HAB), amounting to 13% of the total distance. If you complete the race in seven days, expect the equivalent of one full day of HAB. This makes dialing in your setup crucial—more weight on the bike means a heavier push. Equally important, ensure your shoes are comfortable and blister-free.

Resupply Points
Resupplying on the Colorado Trail Race is relatively straightforward, except for one challenging section. The stretch from Princeton Hot Springs to Silverton is 181 miles, requiring about three days at 60 miles per day. This is likely one of the toughest parts of the race, so be sure to carry extra food. While Princeton Hot Springs and Stagestop Store & Saloon offer limited resupply options, the other locations along the route provide adequate or full-service supplies.

Riding and Touring the Colorado Trail

If you crave singletrack, this trail delivers some of the best riding experiences. However, racing the route means you might not fully savor its beauty. For a more leisurely and enjoyable experience, consider touring the route instead.

Plan Your CTR Adventure
Prepare for the Colorado Trail Race with confidence by leveraging our comprehensive guides, detailed maps, and expert gear recommendations. Whether racing or touring, the CTR promises an unforgettable adventure through some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States.

For detailed planning aids to help you on your journey, visit our CTR Planning Aids. Dive into our resources and equip yourself for a successful adventure!

CT/CDT Trail near Breckenridge Colorado - Bikepacking - Thru-hking - hiking - Colorado Trail Guide

Route

CTR map - Colorado trail - Colorado Trail Transportation Guide - Colorado Trail Guide

This map from the Colorado Trail Foundation shows the hiking route, NOT the bike route. But you get the picture.

Denver to Durango

Durango to Denver

Elevation profiles provided by John Schilling. Support John’s effort by purchasing prints, sticks and mugs of these profiles.

COLORADO TRAIL RACE 2024 COUNT DOWN

Aug 11, 2024 4 am, Waterton Canyon

0Weeks0Days0Hours0Minutes0Seconds

Colorado Trail Race

The Colorado Trail Race (CTR) is an unsanctioned, self-supported bikepacking event that resembles a large group ride. Participants follow a predetermined route, start time, and a brief list of rules. Riders are expected to understand and adhere to the rules, maintaining a gentleman’s agreement to “race” fairly. There are no organizers, checkpoints, or aid stations; each rider is solely responsible for themselves.

The race direction alternates annually. In odd-numbered years, the race travels from South to North (or West to East), starting in Durango. In even-numbered years, it goes from North to South (or East to West), starting in Waterton Canyon.

Suggested Start Date:

August 11, 2024, 4 AM at Waterton Canyon

Rules

Bikepacking races, including the Colorado Trail Race (CTR), are generally unsanctioned and free of entry fees and prizes. However, a set of standard rules governs these races to ensure fairness and consistency among participants.

Note: While these are general rules for bikepacking races, each event may have specific rules that can change over time. It’s crucial to review and understand the official rules for each event, which can be found at the link below.

Self-Supported: Riders must complete the entire route under their own power.
Stay on Course: Follow the designated route without deviation.
Be Respectful: Follow all laws and maintain good conduct.
Leave No Trace: Minimize your impact on the environment.

For the official and expanded rules, visit jwookieone. Be sure to read and familiarize yourself with them.

No entry fees, no prizes, and absolutely no support are provided.

Spot Tracking

While Spot trackers are not mandatory for the Colorado Trail Race (CTR), their use is highly encouraged. Given the trail’s difficulty and the lack of support, having a tracker is a valuable safety measure. If you wish to be included in the race tracking, you can sign up at Trackleaders.com up to one month before the event.

Spot Rentals

Spot Gen3 devices are available for rent through Trackleaders.com approximately one month before the race. For more information on renting a tracker, check the Bikepacking.net forums, Facebook groups, or visit Trackleaders.

Support the Colorado Trail Foundation

Although the Colorado Trail Foundation is not affiliated with the race, they are the dedicated stewards responsible for managing and maintaining the trail. Thanks to their efforts and the support of their members, we have the privilege of enjoying this incredible trail. Please consider donating, become a member, or joining a work crew of the Colorado Trail Foundation to support their ongoing work and ensure the trail remains in excellent condition.

As an affiliate partner, One of Seven Project earns a commission for purchases made through any product, brand logo links, or banner ads on this page. Thanks for your support!

COLORADO TRAIL RACE PLANNING AIDS

Welcome to The Project’s Planning Aids, designed to bridge the gap left by the lack of high-quality planning tools within bikepacking. As a Triple Crown thru-hiker, I’m accustomed to comprehensive planning resources, and I noticed that bikepacking needed similar quality tools. That’s why I developed these resources to make your Colorado Trail adventure as smooth and well-prepared as possible.
Our planning aids include four distinct styles to help you plan your ride:

The Data Sheet offers the most detailed information, including distance, elevation +/-, resupply options, notes and more for key POI.
Town List provides cumulative distances between POI, and does the math so you don’t have to.
Mileage Chart and Elevation Gain Chart are simple graphs showing cumulative mileage and elevation gain between POI.

Each tool serves a unique purpose to support your planning and navigation needs.

Explore our offerings to find the perfect combination for your needs and get ready to conquer the CTR! Don’t forget to checkout our online Colorado Trail Resources as well.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

The race runs southbound/westbound on years ending in an even number and those planning aids have a BLUE band.
The race runs northbound/eastbound on years ending in an odd number and those planning aids have an RED band.
All planning aids are based off the 10k GPX file.

BUNDLES DATA SHEET / TOWN LIST MILEAGE / ELEVATION GAIN CHARTS

BUNDLES

Small Bundles:

Big Bundles:

1 2

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

One package including our two most popular planning aids.

Data Sheet
Town List

1 2

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

One package including all of our planning aids.

Data Sheet
Town List
Mileage Chart
Elevation Gain Chart

Available in both SOBO and NOBO versions and ONLY in US Standard units.

Small Bundle – $40.00 + tax (CO only) *You save $10 when you bundle!

Big Bundle – $60.00 + tax (CO only) *You save $20 when you bundle!

Buy Now »

DATA SHEETS / TOWN LISTS

Data Sheets:

Town Lists:

1 2 3

Gives you the most information of any planning aid.

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Key POI.
Elevation / Pop of POI.
Mileage numbers.
Distance to next.
Elevation +/-.
Max & Min. elevation between POI.
Pavement sections.
Key water sources.
Shows bike shops.
Resupply options.
Important notes.
Elevation profile.
Finish Target Times.

1 2 3

Similar to the Data Sheet, with slightly less information, but displayed showing cumulative mileage and elevation gain.

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Key POI.
Mileage.
Distance on/off trail.
Important notes about POI.
Cumulative distances to up coming POI.
Elevation Gain to reach up coming POI.
Key water sources.
Shows bike shops.
Finish Target Times added.

All versions of the Town Lists are ONLY available as part of the Small or Big Bundles.

Available in both SOBO and NOBO versions and ONLY in US Standard units.

Data Sheet – $25 + Tax (CO only)

Buy Now »

MILEAGE / ELEVATION GAIN CHARTS

Mileage Charts:

Elevation Gain Charts:

1 2 3

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Quickly find the total mileage between any two POI along the route.

Shows bike shops.
Works for both directions.
Key water sources.

1 2 3

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Quickly find the total elevation gain between any two POI along the route.

Shows bike shops.
Works for both directions.
Key water sources.

The Mileage and Elevation Gain Charts are ONLY available as part of the Big Bundle.

Big Bundle – $60.00 + tax (CO only) *You save $20 when you bundle!

Buy Now »

Highlights Difficulties Food / Water Camping

Highlights:

Stunning Scenery: Experience breathtaking views of the Colorado Rockies, alpine meadows, and lush forests.
High Altitude Challenges: Ride at elevations often exceeding 10,000 feet, testing your endurance and acclimatization.
Epic Singletrack: Enjoy some of the best singletrack trails in the country, offering technical challenges and thrilling descents.
Wildlife Encounters: Spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and marmots in their natural habitats.
Remote Wilderness: Embrace the solitude and tranquility of riding through remote, unspoiled wilderness areas.
Historic Sites: Pass by historic mining towns and remnants of Colorado’s rich mining history.
Community: Share the trail with a supportive community of fellow bikepackers, fostering camaraderie and mutual encouragement.
Physical and Mental Challenge: Test your physical limits and mental toughness on one of the most demanding bikepacking routes.
Diverse Terrain: Navigate a variety of terrains, from rocky paths and steep climbs to smooth, flowy sections.
Starry Nights: Camp under clear, star-filled skies, away from city lights and noise.
Personal Achievement: Experience the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment from completing a challenging long-distance race.
Sunrises and Sunsets: Witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the mountains, creating unforgettable moments.

Difficulties:

Altitude Sickness: The high elevation can lead to altitude sickness, affecting performance and health.
Extreme Weather: Encountering sudden thunderstorms, heavy rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures.
Physical Fatigue: The strenuous climbs and long days can lead to significant physical exhaustion.
Technical Terrain: Navigating challenging singletrack, rocky paths, and steep descents requiring advanced bike handling skills. 70 +/- of HAB.
Limited Resupply Points: Sparse availability of food and water resupply points, requiring careful planning.
Remote Locations: Long stretches of isolation with limited access to help or emergency services.
Wildlife Encounters: Potential encounters with bears, mountain lions, and other wildlife.
Navigational Challenges: Keeping on course through dense forests, open meadows, and rugged terrain. Know how to trouble shoot your GPS.
Bike Maintenance: Dealing with mechanical issues or bike breakdowns in remote areas.
Mental Strain: The mental toughness required to stay motivated and focused through difficult sections.
Sleep Deprivation: Balancing the need for rest with the desire to maintain a competitive pace.
Hypothermia Risk: Exposure to cold temperatures, especially at night or during inclement weather. See our post about staying warm while bikepacking for tips.
Trail Conditions: Variable trail conditions, including mud, loose gravel, and overgrown sections.
Logistical Challenges: Managing gear, food, and water while keeping pack weight minimal.

Food:

Limited Resupply Points: Sparse availability of stores and towns for resupply (especially between Silverton and Princeton Hot Springs), requiring careful meal planning.
High-Calorie, Nutrient-Dense, Compact Options: Necessity for lightweight, non-perishable foods that are rich in proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to support sustained energy while being easy to carry.
Variety: Keeping a variety of foods to prevent taste fatigue and ensure balanced nutrition.
Frequent Eating: The need to eat small, frequent meals and snacks to maintain energy throughout the day.
Dehydrated Meals: Reliance on dehydrated or freeze-dried meals that are lightweight and packable (for those touring with a stove).
Emergency Rations: Carrying extra food for unexpected delays or emergencies.

Water:

Water Sources and Availability: Identifying reliable water sources along the route, including streams, rivers, and lakes, and being prepared for stretches with limited water availability, especially in dry sections. Our CTR planning aids can help with this.
Water Storage: Using efficient water storage solutions like hydration bladders, bottles, and collapsible containers.
Water Purification: Necessity for purification methods such as filters, tablets, or UV light to ensure safe drinking water.
Hydration Strategy: Developing a hydration strategy to prevent dehydration, especially at high altitudes.
Electrolytes: Including electrolyte supplements to replace salts lost through sweating.
Monitoring Intake: Regularly monitoring water intake to ensure adequate hydration.
Emergency Water: Carrying extra water for emergencies, particularly in remote or dry areas.

These considerations are crucial for ensuring proper nutrition and hydration, which are key to maintaining energy and performance on the demanding Colorado Trail Race.

Camping:

Camping is fairly straight forward the the Colorado Trail. Numerous dispersed camping options, as well as established campgrounds exist along the route. Below is a list of camping consideration.

Permits and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with camping regulations and obtain any necessary permits for designated wilderness areas.
Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
Campsite Selection: Choose established campsites when possible to reduce environmental impact. Look for flat, dry areas away from water sources.
Bear and Food Storage Safety: Store food securely and away from your sleeping area. Use bear-proof containers or hang food and scented items to avoid attracting wildlife.
Lighting: Bring a reliable headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for navigating and camping at night.

These considerations will help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible camping experience on the Colorado Trail.

Photos of The CTR

Colorado trail CTR - If I Rode the Colorado Trail Race Again

If I Rode the Colorado Trail Race Again - colorado trail CTR

Colorado Trail Race - Cochetopa - Gunnison and Rio Grande National Forests - CTR Colorado Trail Guide

Colorado Trail, CTR, hiking, bikepacking, colorado, thru-hike, thru-bike, hike, mountains

CT, CTR, Colorado Trail, mountains, weather

External Resources

WEBSITES

MAPS & APPS

More Helpful CTR Resources

Everything you need to plan a bikepacking trip on the CTR.