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A relatively smooth and, at times, steep trail with a good mix of up and down and some rocky and loose sections, too.


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Map Key

11.4

Miles

18.3

KM

Point to Point

9,505' 2,897 m

High

8,493' 2,589 m

Low

1,429' 436 m

Up

435' 132 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

30%

Max Grade (17°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors

Motos and mountain bikes are allowed, so share the trail and be wary of their speed.

Description

This trail is a popular extension of the Monarch Crest Trail coming from the southwest after Silver Creek Trail (opposite of mapping shown). Look for the Rainbow Trail signs off to the right across County Rd 47YY on the western end to locate the trailhead. The eastern trailhead is off Hwy 285 just south of Mears Junction.

Heading west from the Mears Junction end, the trail begins abruptly with a steep and narrow switchback climb from Hwy 285. After a few hundred yards, it levels off through the trees.

The first three or so miles heading west are more challenging with some sustained climbs on trickier terrain. Expect short, technical rocky sections and tricky dips in and out of gulches. After four miles, the trail crosses a dirt road. Continue heading south and west.

The trail continues to ascend gradually as the sustained climbs begin to mellow out a bit, and the trail smooths out some. This trail section ends at Silver Creek and Toll Road Gulch.

Contacts

Shared By:

Zander Göpfert

Trail Ratings

  3.7 from 3 votes

#24060

Overall
  3.7 from 3 votes
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4 Star
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3 Star
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2 Star
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1 Star
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Trail Rankings

#1,903

in Colorado

#24,060

Overall
2 Views Last Month
933 Since Apr 21, 2017
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

A few natural obstacles along the way.
Apr 21, 2017 near Salida, CO

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Unknown
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