CDT: Highway 114 to Sargents Mesa (CO Sec. 16)

About

This 21-mile segment of the Continental Divide Trail connects Highway 114 to Sargents Mesa in Gunnison, Colorado. The route begins with a short road walk along the shoulder of Highway 114 before turning left onto Forest Road 785. This gravel road follows Lujan Creek upstream to a trailhead where single-track terrain begins. The trail ascends steadily and steeply to the summit of a small peak, then continues along a forested ridge for several miles. The ridgewalk is characterized by constant ups and downs rather than exposed, open views. Water is available at Razor Creek for refilling. The trail surface transitions from single track to double track as it crosses Sargents Mesa, ending with a slight descent into a meadow area near the Sargents Trailhead. The moderate difficulty rating reflects the distance and elevation changes, with a typical completion time of approximately 12 hours. The trail is open to hikers, mountain bikes, and motorcycles year-round.