The Fingers Trail

About

The Fingers Trail is a 12.2-mile difficult hiking route located near Montrose, Colorado, on the Western Slope. The trail follows the cliff bands above the Dry Creek drainage and winds along the fingers of Cushman Mesa. It begins at the Tabeguache Trail via Cushman Mesa Road, starting at an elevation of 5,807 feet and reaching a high point of 7,171 feet. The route is best traveled from south to north, offering the most descending terrain. Hikers encounter a mix of smooth and loose rocky singletrack that descends into a wash before climbing back up to circle Cushman Mesa. The trail is well marked with no major intersections, though a right turn near the start can be easy to miss. The typical duration for this strenuous hike is approximately 8 hours, requiring a significant time commitment and physical fitness. Parking is available at the trailhead. While some sources suggest year-round accessibility, others note that conditions may vary from April through October depending on weather and maintenance. The trail offers clear views of the surrounding area.