Contact Info
325 Rainbow Blvd.
Salida, CO 81201
- Phone:
- 719-539-3591
Basics
- Length:
- 12.5 miles
- Difficulty:
- Intermediate
- Time:
- 6 - 7 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 8540 feet
- Elevation Range:
- 8540 feet to 8880 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 340 feet
- Season:
- Summer to Fall
Description
This segment of the Rainbow Trail is popular with many types of users and is accessible and snow-free during many times of the year. Views of the Arkansas valley, and the Sawatch Range are breathtaking. Vegetation varies from pinon and juniper to a fir and spruce stands.
Water is scarce between Mears Junction and Bear Creek. Make sure you have ample water for the trip. The Rainbow trail is a enjoyed by a variety of users. Expect and respect other users!
Details
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Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Hwy 285: The Rainbow Trail crosses US Hwy 285 approximately 5 miles south of Poncha Springs, CO. A small parking area is located on the right side of the highway. To access the trail and travel east towards Bear Creek, users must cross the highway. Use caution when crossing the highway! From the parking area, the trail climbs to the southwest towards Silver Creek.
From Salida: At Burger King, take County Road 107 south to CR 108. Cr 108 travel south for approximately 3.5 miles to the trailhead. A high clearance vehicle is a require for the last 1.5 miles of the road.
From Bear Creek: Travel approximately 2 miles east from Salida on Hwy 50. Watch carefully for the left turn onto CR 101. Take CR 101, south for 4.5 miles to the trailhead. A high clearance vehicle is required for the last 2 miles of the road.
