Craig Creek Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
19.8 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
589 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Hike, bike, or horseback ride the Craig Creek Trail in the Pike National Forest. This picturesque, forested hike will lead adventurers through the verdant Colorado woodlands. If you are seeking a secluded hike among the highly trafficked Front Range hikes, the Craig Creek Trail is a great option. Perfect as a lengthy day-hike or an overnight excursion, this path is epic.

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Route Description for Craig Creek Trail

Disconnect from technology and the stressors of today’s world as you hike the Craig Creek Trail. What better way is there to relieve tension then to head out into the wilderness? Hike along the forest route and trek past historic mines and past dozens of babbling brooks. With the perfect ratio of elevation gain and technical terrain, this hike will get you moving without over exhausting you. Note this adventure is lengthy, so if you hope to conquer it in a day, head out in the early morning. We would also recommend bringing along the trail GPS to help you navigate the paths.

Embark on your excursion along the Craig Creek Trail from the trailhead and parking lot. From this point, you will want to track northwest on the Colorado Trail. The initial segment of this adventure has the steepest and most intense grade, but do not be discouraged. Summit the steep terrain and it will eventually plateau before guiding you down into a forested valley. Climb up the trail through the woodlands and notice some old mine remnants on the side of the path. Trek on through the forest and at the junction, veer right onto the Payne Creek Trail. Hike along the Craig Creek down the river valley as you pass several dispersed campsites.

You know you will have reached your turn around point when the valley trail begins to climb. Do not ascend the route unless you are prepared for a lengthy and strenuous backpacking excursion through the Lost Creek Wilderness. Instead, take a break, dip your tired feet in the creek and refuel before beginning your return. When you are ready, backtrack along the path all the way to the trailhead and car park.

Getting to the Craig Creek Trail Trailhead

The Craig Creek Trail is off County Road 68.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Designated dispersed campsites along the trail

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Craig Creek Trail Elevation Graph

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