Crag Crest Trail

About

The Crag Crest Trail is a 11-mile National Recreation Loop near Cedaredge, Colorado, offering panoramic views of the Book Cliffs, Roan Cliffs, West Elk Mountains, and San Juan Mountains. The trail sits on Grand Mesa, the world's largest flat-top mountain. Hikers access the route via two trailheads: the West Trailhead near Island Lake and the East Trailhead at Crag Crest Campground. The path begins as a dirt singletrack, climbing through open meadows and forests before ascending to a narrow, talus-strewn ridge. The steepest section occurs between mile 1 and 2, where the trail gains significant elevation. The ridge segment spans approximately three miles with narrow areas and steep drop-offs, providing high vantage points. The trail is designated for foot travel on the crest section between the East Trailhead and the Cottonwood Lakes Trail junction, while biking and horseback riding are permitted on the lower loop and the section from the West Trailhead to the ridge center. Fall hiking is recommended between September and November, when weather is mild and foliage changes color. The trail typically takes about two hours to complete for shorter segments, though the full loop is longer. Parking is available at both trailheads. The route is pet-friendly and features diverse wildflowers along the way.