Colorado Trail: Twin Sisters

This trail is rated as a "black diamond difficulty singletrack trail" and is intended for experienced mountain bikers. It involves substantial elevation gain, starting at an altitude of 10,891 feet and ascending to just over 12,100 feet, making it a demanding route.

The trail is a singletrack route that can feature eroded sections, small loose rocks, and narrow passages. You may encounter a well-carved gravel-dirt path with rocks and rock steps, steep ascents, and tight switchbacks. Surfaces vary from forested areas to boulder fields as you climb.

Riders can anticipate "sweeping vistas" as the trail traverses the north area of Lime Creek, partly due to the historic "Lime Creek Burn of 1879." The route offers a mix of forested sections and open grasslands with wildflowers, especially at or above the treeline. Views can include Longs Peak and Mount Lady Washington, along with a "buffet of peaks" once above the treeline.

Yes, the trail offers expansive views, particularly once above the treeline. You'll also pass by Molas Pass, a significant point along the route. The scenery includes open grasslands and wildflowers, with distant views of peaks like Longs Peak and Mount Lady Washington.

The trail is located near Durango and Silverton in the San Juan National Forest. Specific parking information for the trailhead is best found by checking local forest service resources or detailed trail maps for the Molas Pass area, which is a common access point.

The Colorado Trail: Twin Sisters is located within the San Juan National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits required for day-use mountain biking on most trails within National Forests. However, it's always advisable to check the official San Juan National Forest website for any current regulations, alerts, or specific permit requirements that might apply to certain areas or activities.

As a multi-use trail within the San Juan National Forest, dogs are generally allowed on the Twin Sisters trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users and to protect wildlife. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.

The best time to mountain bike this trail is typically during the summer and early fall months, when the snow has melted and the weather is most favorable. Given its high altitude, the trail can be snow-covered well into early summer, and conditions can change rapidly. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.

The trail is approximately 10 miles long, with an average completion time of about 2 hours and 33 minutes for mountain bikers. This duration can vary significantly based on your skill level, fitness, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, the route is a segment of the larger Colorado Trail network. Specifically, this route covers 100% of the Colorado Trail, 69% of the Twin Sisters / Colorado Trail, 34% of another Twin Sisters / Colorado Trail segment, and smaller portions of the Molas - Colorado Trail and Engineer Mountain Trail.

The CT - Twin Sisters is a multi-use trail, meaning you will share it with hikers, backpackers, and equestrians. Always practice proper trail etiquette by yielding to uphill traffic and being courteous to all users. Announce your presence when approaching others, especially on blind corners.