CT Thru-Hike Permit: Route
CT Thru-Hike permits are walk-up only in Colorado Trail. The route covers 486 miles.
This guide covers the Colorado Trail Thru-Hike permit.
Free (self-register at wilderness boundaries)
Permit Cost
4-6 weeks
Duration
486 miles
Distance
89,000'
Elevation Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
About CT Thru-Hike
Walk 486 miles from Denver to Durango through the heart of the Rocky Mountains—crossing eight mountain ranges, six wilderness areas, and reaching heights above 13,000 feet.
The CT Thru-Hike route
- Distance
- 486 miles
- Route type
- point-to-point
- Elevation gain
- 89,000 ft
- High point
- 13,271 ft
- Low point
- 5,520 ft
- Trip length
- 4-6 weeks
- Difficulty
- strenuous
Entry points: Waterton Canyon (Denver), Junction Creek (Durango)
Rocky Mountains. Nearest town: Denver
Points along the route
- Waterton Canyon (Denver Terminus)Mile 0, 5,520 ft
- Lost Creek WildernessMile 45
- Kenosha PassMile 66, 9,995 ft
- Breckenridge/Frisco AccessMile 104, 9,181 ft
- Twin LakesMile 143, 9,233 ft
- Collegiate East/West SplitMile 144
- Monarch PassMile 220, 11,310 ft
- Lake City AccessMile 358, 10,893 ft
- Coney SummitMile 380, 13,271 ft
- Silverton AccessMile 409, 10,904 ft
- Junction Creek (Durango Terminus)Mile 486, 6,995 ft
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100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for CT Thru-Hike?
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Yes, a permit is required. Walk-up permits are available at the trailhead or visitor center, but arrive early as they may be limited.
When is the best time to visit CT Thru-Hike?
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Late June through September. July and early August have the best weather but daily thunderstorms. Late August/September has fewer storms but shorter days and early snow possible in San Juans. Late September offers golden aspens at Kenosha Pass.
How long is the CT Thru-Hike route?
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The route is 486 miles, as a point-to-point. Plan on 4-6 weeks.
How difficult is the CT Thru-Hike route?
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Fit hikers ready for a multi-week expedition. Good introduction to thru-hiking due to frequent town access.
Where does the CT Thru-Hike route start?
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The permit covers 2 entry points: Waterton Canyon (Denver), Junction Creek (Durango).
What gear do I need for the CT Thru-Hike route?
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Essential gear includes: Rain gear (afternoon thunderstorms daily in summer), Warm layers (nights are cold even in August), Bear-resistant food storage (canisters recommended; hanging difficult in many areas), Water filter (sources generally abundant but require treatment), Sun protection (much of trail is above treeline).
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