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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
615 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.4 km
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.
3.5-5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Jones Pass Hike

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Jones Pass Trail is a popular route in the Arapaho National Forest. This adventure can be completed in several different ways. Drive the Jones Pass Trail, hike it, bike it, run it or snowshoe it. Whether you come in the peak of summer or in the dead of winter, we can almost guarantee that you will encounter many adventurers on this path!

Route Description for Jones Pass Hike

The Jones Pass Hike is awesome because it can be enjoyed year-round. Our favorite season to hike up the pass is fall, so we can admire the beauty of the vibrant foliage. The season you choose to adventure the Jones Pass is up to your description, just note that it will be extremely windy on the Continental Divide, no matter what season it is. If you choose to drive the gravel road up the pass, make sure you have a 4x4 vehicle and high ground clearance. Please also be mindful of those hiking or biking along the route.

Depart from the Jones Pass Trailhead off of the I-70. If you are walking the Divide, simply park your car here. Hike the trail northwest up the pass. Follow the gravel road and be mindful of passing vehicles. Track along the trail and the climb will become increasingly intense. If you aren’t used to the high elevation, make sure to stop for breaks and keep hydrated. Continue along the path and you will notice dispersed campsites on the edge of the trail. The ones near the trailhead are semi-shielded from the wind by the towering pines. Soon, you will encounter an intersection; stay right on the gravel trail.

Shortly after the junction you will meet another fork in the road, here stay left on the gravel route. Navigate a few switchbacks and you will ascend the treeline. Again, you will confront off-shooting trails, maintain along the rocky road. Track along the windy ridgeline as the path curves you southwest. The campsites along the exposed ridgeline have striking views of the Rocky Mountains, but the wind is extreme. Eventually, you will confront an extremely steep section of the trail. Scale the route and you will summit Jones Pass.

Enjoy the expansive mountainous views and sights of the lush woodlands below. Appreciate the grandeur of the scenery from atop the Continental Divide before retracing your steps all the way back down to the parking lot.

Getting to the Jones Pass Hike Trailhead

The Jones Pass Trailhead is located off the I-70.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Yes, Dispersed Campsites along Jones Pass Road

  • When to do:

    Year-Round

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Jones Pass Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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