Continental Divide Trail #531 (Monarch Crest)
This portion of the Continental Divide Trail starts at a high elevation and continues south from Monarch Pass for 11.5 miles to Marshall Pass. This trail winds through the San Isabel and Gunnison national forests.
The trail boasts little elevation gain, and through hikers and mountain bikers will enjoy a break from the strenuous climbs of other sections of the trail. A three-sided Adirondack shelter can be found about 6 miles from the trailhead. The trail is closed by winter snow from November until June.
This trail is also one of the most popular mountain biking routes in the state of Colorado. Motorcycles are also allowed on this trail, but ATVs and other four-wheel drive vehicles are prohibited.
General Information
A spring comes out of the ground next to the trail.
ATVs and other four-wheel drive vehicles are prohibited.
Address: 5575 Cleora Road Salida, CO 81201
Phone: 719-539-3591
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Parking
Parking is available at Monarch Pass and Marshall Pass trailheads.
Directions
From Poncha Springs, travel west on Highway 50 for 18 miles to the top of Monarch Pass (elevation of 11,386 feet). From the parking lot at the Monarch Crest store, look for a dirt road that travels east from behind the gondola building for the Monarch Tramway. Take this road a short distance until it intersects with the trail located on the right side of the road.
Nearby Recreation Sites
Recreation Opportunities
Day Hikes Info
This section of the Continental Divide Trail offers hikers some of the most gorgeous views of both sides of the divide. The trail is an easy hike from the Monarch Crest to Marshall Pass, a distance of 11.5 miles.
This is also a popular mountain bike trail, and hikers should listen for the sound of approaching bikes and be ready to step off of the trail. Mountain biking activity is heaviest during weekends.
Backpacking Info
Backpackers traveling through on the Continental Divide Trail will love this relatively easy portion of the trail. The distance is only 11.5 miles from the Monarch Crest to the Marshall Pass trailhead. Please camp at least 100 feet off the trail. A three-sided Adirondack shelter can be found about 6 miles from the trailhead. Weather can be extreme at this elevation, so watch for approaching thunderstorms and lightning.
Horseback Riding Info
This stretch of the Continental Divide Trail is a great ride and offers riders a chance to see for miles along the divide. Riders should be aware that this trail is a busy one for mountain biking enthusiasts, as well as motorcyclists.
This section of trail travels south to Marshall Pass and is 11.5 miles in length.
Biking - Mountain Info
The Crest Trail, as it is known locally, is one of the most popular mountain biking trails in Colorado. The trail is short, only 11.5 miles from the Monarch Crest to Marshall Pass.
Weekend traffic is heaviest with mountain bikers. To avoid the crowds, try riding during the week. Late season snow will delay opening of the trail until late June or early July.
Please practice trail courtesy and watch for other users. Be prepared to stop and yield to hikers and equestrians.
OHV Trail RidingOHV Trail Riding Info
The Crest Trail is open to motorcycles. ATVs are prohibited on this trail. The trail can be accessed either from Monarch Pass or Marshall Pass. The trail is 11.5 miles in length and is a great scenery ride with views from the top of the Continental Divide.
Motorcyclists should be aware that this is a heavily used trail. Please practice trail courtesy by watching your speed. Be prepared to stop and yield to hikers and equestrians.
Recreation Groups
These recreation sites and trail segments are located along the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.