Colorado · Hiking · Near Estes Park

Ditch Road

Ditch RoadPhoto: inkknife_2000 (7.5 million views +), CC BY-SA 2.0 (via Wikimedia Commons)
5.4 mi
round trip
1,392 ft
climb
10,287 ft
high point
Out and back
route
Jun, Sep
best months

Is Ditch Road open right now?

Closure in the area

There's a closure order in Rocky Mountain National Park. It doesn't name Ditch Road, so check the source for the area it covers.

As of · Source: NPS · Rocky Mountain National Park. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

Ditch Road is a 2.7-mile out-and-back trail located near Colorado in Colorado. This relatively short hike offers an accessible option for hikers looking for a straightforward route without significant elevation challenges. As an out-and-back trail, hikers will retrace their steps on the return journey, making route-finding simple and allowing visitors to turn back at any point that suits their fitness level or time constraints. The modest distance makes this trail suitable for families, beginners, or those seeking a quick outdoor outing. The trail's name suggests it follows or parallels a ditch, which may indicate an irrigation channel or water conveyance structure common to Colorado's landscape. This type of trail often provides insight into the region's water management history and agricultural heritage. Before heading out, check current trail conditions and any local advisories. Bring adequate water, especially in Colorado's typically dry climate, and verify access information with local land management agencies. The trail's proximity to populated areas makes it a convenient option for local residents and visitors seeking outdoor recreation.

Around this trail

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

    Timber Creek Campground

    Campground

    Campground · 0.6 mi from the trail
  • Eat after

    Trail Ridge Cafe

    Restaurant

    On your way back · 7 mi
  • If it rains

    Images of Rocky Mountain National Park

    Gallery

    In town

Places © OpenStreetMap contributors

More in Estes Park

Local outfitters

Not on Roamze yet. Their page has how to reach them.

  • Best time to go · Jun, Sep

    Best time to visit Ditch Road

    Best months: June and September. 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

      30° / 4°

      14 wet · 14 snow

    2. Feb

      34° / 6°

      13 wet · 12 snow

    3. Mar

      42° / 14°

      12 wet · 9 snow

    4. Apr

      49° / 20°

      11 wet · 6 snow

    5. May

      59° / 28°

      12 wet · 2 snow

    6. Jun

      71° / 34°

      11 wet

    7. Jul

      76° / 40°

      14 wet

    8. Aug

      73° / 38°

      15 wet

    9. Sep

      68° / 32°

      12 wet · 1 snow

    10. Oct

      55° / 23°

      10 wet · 4 snow

    11. Nov

      40° / 13°

      11 wet · 9 snow

    12. Dec

      30° / 5°

      14 wet · 13 snow

    Typical high / low (°F) and days with rain or snow, 1991–2020. Measured at Grand Lake 1 Nw, CO, 7.4 mi away at 8,720 ft. The station sits about 1,600 ft lower than this place, so expect it a little cooler here. Source: NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020.

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Map and trail data © OpenStreetMap contributors