By Claire WhitakerUpdated November 2026
Bikepacking the Colorado Trail means riding a long, mostly unpaved route from Denver to Durango, with a large share of the miles above 9,000 feet. This guide walks you through the route structure, timing, resupply and gear decisions so you can plan a trip that fits your fitness and your schedule. By the end, you will know what to prioritize and where most riders run into trouble.
Understand the Route Before You Commit
The full Colorado Trail runs roughly 486 miles from Waterton Canyon, just southwest of Denver, to Durango. Riders often split the route into sections, since the trail crosses several high passes and long stretches with few services. Trail-wide, total elevation gain is commonly reported at well over 70,000 feet, though figures vary by source and by which alternate lines you ride.
Shopping for one? See our guide: Vermont Super 8 Bikepacking: 3 Best Packs for the Trail.
Bikes are allowed on most of the trail, but some segments are designated for hikers only or have seasonal restrictions. Check current trail rules with the Colorado Trail Foundation before finalizing your plan. For a sense of how bikepacking routes compare in scale, see Olympic Discovery Trail Bikepacking: 7 Steps to Plan Your Route.
Plan Your Timing and Daily Mileage
Most riders aim for 40 to 70 trail miles per day, depending on terrain and load. Because high passes often hold snow into early summer, many people ride from late June through September. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August, so plan to be off exposed ridgelines by early afternoon.
- Pick a start date between late June and early September based on snowpack reports.
- Divide the route into daily targets, with one short day after each major climb.
- Mark water sources and town stops on your map, since gaps can exceed 30 miles.
- Set a bailout point every two or three days where you can reach a road or town.
Plan Resupply and Water Carefully
Resupply is the factor that most often shapes a Colorado Trail trip. Towns such as Buena Vista, Salida, Twin Lakes and Lake City offer food, but some segments require carrying three or more days of supplies. Water sources can be seasonal and sometimes dry by late summer, so treat any water source as uncertain until you see it flowing. Plan to filter or treat all water, and carry enough capacity to cover the longest dry stretch on your section.
Your bike setup matters here too. A bike with a compact gearing and good tire clearance makes steep, loose climbs more manageable. For frame and fit options that suit long, rough routes, see 6 Best Hardtail Bikepacking Bikes for Rough Trails (2026) and Surly Disc Trucker Bikepacking: Setup, Fit and Trip Planning (2026).
Build a Gear List for High Altitude and Weather
Expect daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s and nights that can drop below freezing above 11,000 feet, even in summer. Snow, hail and sudden storms are possible at any time. Pack a warm layer, a waterproof shell and a sleeping system rated for cold nights. Keep your load compact so handling on loose descents stays predictable.
Use a lightweight kit and prioritize warmth-to-weight ratio. A detailed packing approach is covered in Ultralight Bikepacking Gear List: 25 Items for a Under-15-Pound Setup, and rain protection specifics are in 7 Best Bikepacking Rain Jackets: Picks Compared for Wet Trail Days.
Bikepacking the Colorado Trail: Tips and Common Mistakes
- Underestimating elevation. Plan for slower pace on climbs than on flat road miles.
- Carrying too much food for the wrong section. Check resupply towns before packing.
- Skipping a snowpack check before departure, which can leave passes impassable.
- Riding too late into afternoon storm windows above treeline.
- Ignoring tire pressure and tire choice on the rocky, rooty sections.
Recommended gear
A reliable hydration system with a filter or treatment method is essential on a route with long dry gaps. Look for a bikepacking-specific option that mounts to the frame or fork: View on Amazon.
Frame bags keep weight low and centered, which helps on steep, loose climbs. A full-frame bag set designed for your bike size is worth considering: View on Amazon.
FAQ
How long does it take to ride the Colorado Trail by bike?
Most bikepackers take between two and four weeks to complete the full route, depending on daily mileage and rest days. Faster riders with light loads sometimes finish in under two weeks.
Do I need a mountain bike for the Colorado Trail?
A mountain bike or gravel bike with wide tires is the practical choice. Many riders run tires around 2.1 to 2.6 inches wide, though exact preferences vary.
Is the Colorado Trail safe to ride alone?
Many people ride it solo, but you should tell someone your route and check-in times. Consult local land managers and a qualified outdoor safety resource for current conditions.
Conclusion
Bikepacking the Colorado Trail rewards riders who plan around altitude, weather and resupply. Choose your season, map your water and town stops, and keep your load light but warm. With those basics in place, the high-country riding becomes the reason to go.
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About Claire Whitaker
Claire Whitaker is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our bike touring & bikepacking guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
