Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Crawford, Colorado
Crawford, Colorado sits at the edge of the West Elk Wilderness and the Black Canyon country, and the hiking here reflects that geography — rugged, varied, and genuinely uncrowded compared to what you'll find an hour south near Montrose.
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Crawford, Colorado sits at the edge of the West Elk Wilderness and the Black Canyon country, and the hiking here reflects that geography — rugged, varied, and genuinely uncrowded compared to what you'll find an hour south near Montrose. The 67 trails and roads in and around town range from mellow walks like the East Shore Trail along Crawford Reservoir to demanding routes like Pinyon Draw and Long Draw, both rated hard and suited to hikers comfortable with elevation gain and limited shade. Needle Rock Trail is one of the more recognizable hikes in the area, leading toward the volcanic plug that defines the Crawford skyline, while Morrow Point Trail drops into the Black Canyon corridor and earns its reputation as one of the more physically demanding day hikes on the Gunnison. Road-based routes like Old Mesa Corrals Road, Buckhorn Gulch Road, and Cottonwood Creek Road offer longer, lower-angle options that work well for trail runners or hikers who want mileage without technical terrain. The North Fork Valley's elevation keeps summers cooler than the surrounding desert, but most trails here are exposed, so early starts matter from June through August. Spring and fall are the sweet spots for almost everything on this list.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time of year to hike around Crawford?
Late May through June and again in September through mid-October are the most reliable windows. Summer works but afternoons bring thunderstorms and exposed trails like Pinyon Draw and Long Draw offer little shelter, so plan to be off ridgelines by noon. Snow can linger on higher routes into May and return by late October.
What is the Morrow Point Trail like, and is it suitable for beginners?
Morrow Point Trail descends steeply into the Black Canyon to reach the reservoir, and the elevation change on the return makes it a serious workout. It is not a beginner hike. Bring more water than you think you need, wear sturdy footwear with ankle support, and check current access conditions with the Curecanti National Recreation Area before you go since the trailhead access road can be gated.
Are the road-based routes like Buckhorn Gulch Road and Cottonwood Creek Road open to foot traffic, or are they vehicle routes?
These are listed as hikeable routes and are generally passable on foot, but they are also used by vehicles, mountain bikes, and in some cases OHVs. Expect to share the road, especially on weekends and during hunting season in the fall. They tend to be lower-angle than the named trails, which makes them good options for longer mileage days.
What gear should I bring for a day hike near Crawford?
Sun protection is non-negotiable — most trails here are exposed with minimal tree cover. Bring at least two liters of water per person for anything rated moderate or harder, since reliable water sources are scarce on routes like Cactus Ridge Trail and the mesa roads. Sturdy trail shoes or light hikers are fine for most routes, but Pinyon Draw and Long Draw warrant boots with solid ankle support given the terrain.
Do I need a permit or pass to hike these trails?
Most trails on public land around Crawford do not require a permit for day use, but Morrow Point Trail falls within Curecanti National Recreation Area where a National Parks pass or entrance fee may apply. Trails that cross into the West Elk Wilderness have a free self-issue permit system at some trailheads. Check with the Gunnison Field Office of the BLM or the Curecanti visitor center for current requirements before your trip.
