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Colorado
9.7 mi
Distance
2,811 ft
Gain
No conditions check on file for this trail yet — always verify current conditions before you go.
Why you'll love it
S. Zapata
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
S. Zapata is a 9.7-mile out-and-back trail located in Colorado near the town of Colorado, within the Grand Valley Ranger District of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest. This moderate distance trail offers an accessible option for hikers seeking to explore the high country of western Colorado's national forest lands. The trail provides a straightforward out-and-back format, allowing hikers to turn around at their preferred point or complete the full distance for a roughly 19-mile round trip experience. The area is managed by the United States Forest Service through the Grand Valley Ranger District, ensuring maintained trail conditions and adherence to national forest regulations. S. Zapata is well-suited for day hikers looking to experience the terrain and scenery characteristic of the GMUG National Forest region. Weather and seasonal conditions should be considered before planning a visit, as mountain weather can change rapidly. For the most current trail conditions and specific regulations, contact the Grand Valley Ranger District directly or consult official Forest Service resources.
N. Fork Zapata
~1 min drive
1.9 mi · Hard
Raspberry
~3 min drive
7.1 mi · Moderate
Mosca Pass
~14 min drive
<p>Just above the dunefield are forests of aspen, pine, fir, and spruce. The easiest hiking access to forest in the national park is in Mosca Pass, on the Montville Nature Trail and Mosca Pass Trail. On these trails, you are walking in the footsteps of Pleistocene mammoth hunt…
Medano Creek
~15 min drive
<p>Medano Creek is a popular seasonal stream enjoyed by all ages. On this page you'll learn what to expect month-by-month in an average year, and how the rare phenomon 'surge flow' works. You can also link to <a href="https://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/medano-creek.htm">cu…
Lily Lake
~6 min drive
6.6 mi · Hard
Zapata
~7 min drive
3.7 mi · Moderate
Sand Creek Basin
~38 min drive
<p>Sand Creek Basin is part of the alpine watershed of Great Sand Dunes National Preserve. A longer drive and hike is required to reach these lakes and peaks, but the mountain scenery is worth the effort. Check with a ranger for conditions before travel. Snow may block these t…
High Dune on First Ridge
~16 min drive
The high dune on the first ridge is neither the highest in elevation nor the tallest in the dunefield, but it looks that way from the main parking lot. This is the most common destination in the dunefield, providing a great view of the entire dunefield. It is about 692 feet (2…
Huerfano
~8 min drive
8.7 mi · Hard
Willow Lake
~45 min drive
9.7 mi · Moderate
