Withers Canyon Trailhead

This is the starting point for the Picket Wire Trail. It descends 250 feet into the Picket Wire Canyonlands and continues 8.5 miles along the Purgatoire River Valley bottom to Rourke Ranch National Historic District.

Not interested in a long hike? Follow the one-mile Withers Loop Trail from the trailhead to the rim of Picket Wire Canyonlands and enjoy some spectacular views!

This is the only public access into Picket Wire Canyonlands. Hiking, non-motorized bicycles, and horseback riding are permitted.

General Information

Overnight camping is permitted in designated sites at the trailhead; overnight camping is not allowed in the Picket Wire Canyonlands.

Commercial tours required to have a special use permit. Fees vary. Contact 719-384-2181 for information.

Park in designated areas. No shooting. Use existing fire grates.

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 37.65961335

Longitude: -103.572271

Directions

From La Junta, Colorado drive south on Highway 109 for 13 miles; turn right (west) on County Road 802 (David Canyon Road) and continue for 8 miles. Turn left (south) on County Road 25 and travel for 6 miles. Turn left at Picket Wire Corrals onto Forest Service Road 500A. Travel along Forest Service Road 500A for 3 miles, following the signs to Withers Canyon Trailhead. Park at Withers Canyon Trailhead parking loop.