Crag Crest National Recreation Trail

Route Description for Crag Crest National Recreation Trail

For those adventurers that are looking for a solid day hike that isn’t overly challenging but still offers plenty of surreal views, the Crag Crest National Recreation Trail will be the perfect route. Featuring some short but intense climbs and sweeping views of Grand Mesa, there are certainly less rewarding climbs that can be experienced in Colorado.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way to the northeast through intermittent meadows and forests, before making a short but steep climb up to the top of the ridge known as Crag Crest. Here, you will continue on to the northeast along this elevated position, enjoying breathtaking views over the countless lakes and vast woodlands that make up Grand Mesa.

Reaching a point near the edge of the ridgeline, you will head downhill along a wide switchback path, before making your way to the southwest through the forest. Here, you will pass by a number of scenic lakes that are strewn throughout the area, such as Eggleston Lake and Baron Lake. As you approach Island Lake on your left, you will complete the final stretch of the hike that will return you to the trailhead where you began your adventure.