Crosier Mountain Rainbow (#981)

The shaded trail of the Crosier Mountain.

Crosier Mountain can be approached from three trailheads on the south side of County Road 43. The first is Garden Gate (#931) trailhead located 2.2 miles from Drake. Rainbow (#981) trailhead is 5.5 miles from Drake, where you'll find a gravel cut on the south side of the road. A trail sign sits just above the hill from a gate. The third, Glen Haven (#931-2) trailhead, is located behind the stables at the west end of the community of Glen Haven. Although the Rainbow trail is shorter, it is steeper and is the least used of the three approaches. At two miles it joins the trail from Glen Haven. The views from Crosier Mountain are beautiful. Bring your own water since this trail is dry. Crosier Mountain Rainbow trailhead accommodates approximately 10 vehicles.

You can find more information on the Poudre Wilderness Volunteers website. Download trail summary here.

At a Glance

Usage: Light-Medium
Restrictions: Trail Regulations: No motorized equipment. Certified weed-free hay is required for stock.
Closest Towns: Glen Haven, Estes Park
Water: None
Restroom: Practice Leave No Trace principles.

General Information

Directions: Travel 8 miles past the Dam Store on U.S. Highway 34 up Big Thompson Canyon west of Loveland to Drake, and turn right on County Road 43, Glen Haven Road. Crosier Mountain can be approached from three trailheads on the south side of CR 43. The first is Garden Gate Trailhead located 2.2 miles from Drake. Rainbow trailhead is 5.5 miles from Drake, and the third is located behind the stables at the west end of the community of Glen Haven.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking

Day Hiking

There are three access points heading to Crosier Mountain, The Rainbow Trail is steep and has several switchbacks as it climbs 1.8 miles and joins the Crosier Mountain Glen Haven trail coming in from the west. You will pass through a mature aspen grove on the way up, and have fine views of the surrounding countryside. At the junction, look for an old cabin downhill and to the left of the trail. You will continue up through a lodgepole pine forest and again the trail intersects, this time with the Crosier Mountain Summit Trail. The panoramic views from the summit will make the climb well worth the effort. Carry a map, compass, and plenty of water, no water available on this trail. Crosier Mountain Rainbow trailhead accommodates approximately 10 vehicles.

Fire Information Check for any seasonal fire restrictions before your hike. Campfires must be at least 100 feet from water and trails. You may collect dead and down wood; do not break branches from standing trees for firewood. Please attend to campfires at all times. Touch any remaining coals with the bare hand to insure campfire is cold and dead out. Remember, if it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave!
Difficulty Level: More Difficult

Backpacking

Crosier Mountain Rainbow trailhead accommodates approximately 10 vehicles.
Fire Information Check for any seasonal fire restrictions before your hike. Campfires must be at least 100 feet from water and trails. You may collect dead and down wood; do not break branches from standing trees for firewood. Please attend to campfires at all times. Touch any remaining coals with the bare hand to insure campfire is cold and dead out. Remember, if it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave!
Difficulty Level: More Difficult

Horse Riding

Crosier Mountain Rainbow trailhead accommodates approximately 10 vehicles.
Size Restrictions no
Corrals no
Loading Ramp no
Hitching Rails no
Difficulty Level: More Difficult

Know Before You Go

Related Information

Recreation Areas

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Location

 
  Area/Length : 
2.5 miles one-way

  Latitude : 
40.457137

  Longitude : 
-105.426118

  Elevation : 
Beginning Elevation: 7,020' - Peak Elevation: 9,250'