Colorado · Hiking · Near Leadville

CDT ilgST

11.0 mi
distance
1,495 ft
climb
11,930 ft
high point
Lollipop
route

Is CDT ilgST open right now?

Alert in the area

The Forest Service lists 6 alerts for White River National Forest.

As of · Source: USFS · White River National Forest. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

The CDT ilgST is an 11-mile lollipop trail located in Colorado. This route combines an out-and-back section with a loop, offering hikers a scenic journey through the region. The lollipop configuration allows you to experience different terrain on the return portion of your hike, making for a more varied experience than a standard out-and-back route. This trail is ideal for hikers looking for a moderate-length day hike in Colorado. The 11-mile distance is manageable for most fitness levels, though you should plan accordingly for your own abilities and pace. Given the trail's proximity to Colorado's diverse landscapes, expect to encounter the varied terrain typical of the region. Before heading out, check current trail conditions and weather forecasts, as mountain conditions can change rapidly. Bring adequate water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear. The lollipop design means you'll want to pay attention to trail markers to ensure you stay on course, particularly at the loop section.

Around this trail

Add any of these when you start a trip
  • Sleep close

    Frisco Area

    Campground

    Campground · 4.9 mi from the trail
  • Eat after

    Salsa Mountain Cantina

    Restaurant

    On your way back · 3 mi
  • If it rainsPlazak, CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

    Matchless Mine

    Attraction

    In town

Places © OpenStreetMap contributors · Photos: Plazak, CC BY 3.0 (commons)

More in Leadville

Go with a guide

  • Best time to go

    Best time to visit CDT ilgST

    No month here meets our mild-weather rule. Best months have typical highs of 55–85 °F, lows of 30 °F or warmer (32 °F where the station doesn't record snow), at most one snowy day and no more than 12 wet days.

    1. Jan

      27° / 3°

      15 wet · 15 snow

    2. Feb

      29° / 3°

      15 wet · 15 snow

    3. Mar

      35° / 8°

      14 wet · 14 snow

    4. Apr

      40° / 15°

      13 wet · 13 snow

    5. May

      49° / 25°

      10 wet · 8 snow

    6. Jun

      61° / 34°

      8 wet · 2 snow

    7. Jul

      67° / 40°

      13 wet

    8. Aug

      64° / 39°

      15 wet

    9. Sep

      58° / 32°

      11 wet · 2 snow

    10. Oct

      47° / 21°

      9 wet · 7 snow

    11. Nov

      35° / 11°

      12 wet · 12 snow

    12. Dec

      27° / 3°

      15 wet · 15 snow

    Typical high / low (°F) and days with rain or snow, 1991–2020. Measured at Climax, CO, 12.3 mi away at 11,344 ft. The station sits about 600 ft lower than this place, so expect it a little cooler here. Source: NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020.

    Closures we've recorded since August 2026

    • I-70: Vail Pass closed

      closed Nov 4, 2026 → reopened Nov 4, 2026 · State DOT

    • I-70: Vail Pass closed

      closed Oct 30, 2026 → reopened Oct 30, 2026 · State DOT

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Map and trail data © OpenStreetMap contributors