Continental Divide Trail: North Inlet and Tonahutu Creek Loop

This challenging multi-day backpacking trip is often completed in 2 to 4 days. The route covers approximately 67 miles (108 km) with an estimated moving time of around 31 hours.

The North Inlet and Tonahutu Creek Loop is generally rated as difficult. It involves significant elevation gain (over 8,400 feet) and much of the trail is at high altitudes, with over 5 miles above the treeline, making elevation sickness a potential concern.

The terrain is highly varied. You'll encounter lush forests and meadows at lower elevations, steep switchbacks leading above the treeline, and alpine tundra with boulder fields and 'ice grass' in exposed areas. Some sections also pass through wildfire burn areas.

Hikers are treated to diverse scenery, including Cascade Falls and Big Pool in the lower sections. As you ascend, you'll get panoramic mountain views, especially from the Rocky Mountain Wilderness Overlook. Other notable points include the Boardwalk Trail and the Rocky Mountain National Park Entrance Sign.

The loop offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for moose, elk, mule deer, and marmots, which are frequently spotted in the area.

The summer months are generally the best time to hike, when alpine meadows are vibrant with wildflowers. However, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially above the treeline, where afternoon thunderstorms and lightning can be a risk.

Yes, as this loop is within Rocky Mountain National Park, you will need to pay the park's entrance fee. Additionally, backcountry camping permits are required year-round for overnight stays and must be reserved well in advance.

The loop typically starts and ends near Grand Lake. You can access the trail from trailheads such as the East Shore Trailhead or the Green Mountain Trailhead, both of which offer parking options.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on trails within Rocky Mountain National Park, including the North Inlet and Tonahutu Creek Loop, to protect wildlife and natural resources.

Yes, the route incorporates a significant segment of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). It also passes through sections of the Tonahutu Creek Trail, the CDT - Colorado Section, and the East Shore Trail.

This loop is notable for offering a microcosm of the CDT's challenging and scenic high-alpine environments. It provides a diverse blend of ecosystems, from dense forests and expansive meadows to fragile alpine tundra, all within a convenient loop format near Grand Lake.