Pinto Mesa

Managing agency

Forest Service

Pinto Mesa is a 3.0-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Managed by the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District, this route offers straightforward access to the mesa landscape characteristic of the region. The trail follows an out-and-back format, making it easy to turn back at any point. With a 3.0-mile total distance, hikers will cover 1.5 miles to reach the mesa before returning on the same path. This moderate length makes it accessible for a range of skill levels. The surrounding Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest provides scenic mountain and high-desert terrain typical of northern Colorado. The area is managed for both recreation and resource conservation, ensuring maintained trails and protected landscapes. Pinto Mesa is a good option for hikers seeking a shorter outing in the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears area. The out-and-back structure allows flexibility in your hiking duration and distance. Check with the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District for current trail conditions and any seasonal closures before your visit.