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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
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.
561 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
18.1 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.
4-6h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Sourdough Trail

Panorama on Sourdough snowshoe trail in Indian Peaks, Colorado
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Sourdough Trail is a popular cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trail, conveniently off of the Peak to Peak Hwy. It is a beautiful out and back climb through Roosevelt National Forest!

Route Description for Sourdough Trail

The Sourdough Trail is a straightforward out-and-back trail that travels through the beautiful Roosevelt National Forest. From the trailhead, the trail steadily climbs and gains elevation from its starting point of 2,804 m as it traverses across the mountain slopes. This is a perfect cross-country ski trail and is popular for snowshoeing and fat biking.

Approximately a third of the way up the trail, you will cross over a small bridge over Fourmile Creek. The end of the trail puts you at the closed gates to Brainard Lake Recreation Area within the Indian Peak Wilderness. The way back is to follow your tracks back down to the trailhead.

Insider Hints for Sourdough Trail

  • Snowshoes can be rented in the Town of Nederland at Happy Trails Café or Wild Bear Ecology Center.
  • This is a popular trail for fat biking. These can be rented from the Tin Shed.
  • Visit the Town of Nederland! * Where to Eat: Crosscut Pizzeria & Taphouse * Coffee Shop: Happy Trails Cafe * Gear & Supplies: Mountain Man Outdoor Store * Groceries: Mountain People’s Co-op or B&F Mountain Market * Drinks: Very Nice Brewing Company

Getting to the Sourdough Trail Trailhead

From Boulder take CO-119/Boulder Canyon Drive to the town of Nederland. At the traffic circle, take the 2nd exit onto W 2nd St. Continue onto CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway towards Estes Park for 6.8mi. There will be a Camping & Hiking sign indicating a left turn towards Rainbow Lakes onto Co Rd. 116. Trailhead parking is on the left side of the road approximately 0.5mi down the dirt road.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Late November to Early April

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    Camping is allowed in the backcountry, no permit required.

  • Toilets:

    Yes, primitive pit toilet

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Sourdough Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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