Free — you'll pick up right here.

Colorado

Bears Ears

44.9 mi

Distance

1,694 ft

Gain

No verdict for this trail

We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.

What we do know

  • Inside Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest

    2 managing-area boundaries mapped — agency alerts for them feed this page automatically.

    Boundary data

What's missing

  • No access route mapped

    We don't yet know which road reaches this trailhead, so we can't tell you if it's gated.

Nobody's filed a report here yet — be the first.

Why you'll love it

Big climb
Out & back

Here's your day, mapped

Bears Ears

AI-suggested draft · review before you go

Building your full AI plan…

Meals

Building your meal plan…

Gear for the day

Building your gear list…

Elevation & route

Distance
44.9 mi
Elevation gain
1,694 ft
More about this trail ↓

Photos

Directions & GPX

Get Directions to Trailhead Parking

Permits & access

Managing agency
Forest Service

About this trail

Bears Ears is a 24.9-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the town of Colorado, managed by the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest's Boulder Ranger District. This backcountry route offers hikers an extended journey through the national forest with significant distance to commit. The trail follows an out-and-back format, meaning hikers cover the same route in both directions. With nearly 25 miles of total distance, this is best suited for experienced hikers prepared for a full day or multi-day trip. The out-and-back structure allows flexible turnaround points for those seeking shorter outings. Located within the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest, Bears Ears provides access to the forest's diverse terrain and ecosystems. The Boulder Ranger District manages the trail and can provide current conditions and any seasonal restrictions or closures. For the most current trail conditions, regulations, and detailed route information, contact the Boulder Ranger District or consult the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest website. Hikers should come prepared for backcountry travel and verify conditions before heading out.

Add to a trip & share