Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Como, Colorado
Como sits at roughly 9,800 feet in Park County, tucked between the Mosquito Range to the west and the broad South Park basin stretching in every direction.
20 spotsUpdated weeklyFree to access
View on mapHiking · 20 spots
Como sits at roughly 9,800 feet in Park County, tucked between the Mosquito Range to the west and the broad South Park basin stretching in every direction. Hiking here is less about dramatic summit trails and more about open terrain — forest roads, ranch roads, and county roads that double as walking routes through high-altitude grassland and scattered ponderosa. The Gold Dust Trail is the closest thing to a dedicated hiking path in the immediate area, while routes like Forest Road 406, Forest Road 50, and Observatory Rock Road offer straightforward out-and-back walks with wide views across South Park. Trout Creek Road and Eagle Rock Road push into more sheltered terrain with tree cover, which matters when afternoon thunderstorms roll in fast, as they do here from late June through August. Most routes are non-technical and follow established roads, so navigation is simple, but the elevation means anyone coming from lower altitudes should plan for slower pacing and shorter initial outings. The area sees light foot traffic compared to Front Range trailheads, which is part of the appeal.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time of year to hike near Como?
Late June through September is the most reliable window. Snow can linger on higher routes like Forest Road 406 into early June, and it can return by October. July and August offer the warmest conditions but bring daily afternoon thunderstorms, so starting hikes by 7 or 8 a.m. and turning around by early afternoon is a practical habit at this elevation.
Are the hiking routes near Como suitable for beginners?
Most of them are. Routes like Gold Dust Trail, Berkey Road, and County Road 836 follow gentle grades on established roads and tracks, with no technical terrain. The main challenge for beginners is the elevation around 9,800 feet, which will slow your pace and raise your heart rate noticeably if you are coming from sea level or the Front Range. Give yourself a day to acclimate before pushing distance.
Do I need a permit to hike on Forest Road 406 or Forest Road 50?
No permit is required to hike on Pike National Forest roads like Forest Road 406 or Forest Road 50. These are public lands with open access on foot. Some roads in the area may have seasonal vehicle closures, but that does not affect foot travel. If you are unsure about current road or trail status, the South Park Ranger District office in Fairplay is the right contact.
What gear should I bring for a day hike out of Como?
Layers are non-negotiable at this elevation even in summer, since temperatures can drop 20 degrees when a storm moves through. Bring a rain jacket, sun protection, and more water than you think you need since the dry air and altitude accelerate dehydration. Most routes here are on open roads with little shade, so a hat and sunscreen matter more than they might at lower elevations.
Can I bring my dog on these hiking routes?
Dogs are generally welcome on Pike National Forest roads and county roads in this area. Keep them leashed or under reliable voice control, particularly on routes like Ranch Road and Eagle Rock Road where you may encounter livestock or wildlife. Carry water for your dog as well since water sources along most of these routes are not reliable.
