Crosier Mountain Trail

Description:
The Crosier Mountain Trail begins at the Crosier Mountain Trailhead at 7,044 feet and steadily climbs to Crosier Mountain at 9,204 feet. The parking area at the trailhead will accommodate 20 to 25 vehicles and large horse trailers. The trail begins to climb to the south and then climbs the steep ridge to the west making numerous switchbacks along the way. Keep an eye out for black Aberts squirrels along this section of the trail. The trail reaches a large open area at the top of the ridge and turns west for a while. The vegetation along the first mile or so is open ponderosa pine and doulgas fir with grassy areas underneath. You get great views of the ranchette dotted valley below as you climb the ridge. The trail is fairly wide in most spots and not very rocky.
The trail continues up through a saddle and drops down into a small valley containing large ponderosa pine trees. After a short distance it begins to climb again. Lodgepole pine becomes more prevalent as you gain in elevation. The forest is more dense here. The trail makes a more gradual climb up a narrow gulch through some aspen stands. As you exit the aspen, the trail climbs up through an open area and meets a trail coming from Glenhaven. The Crosier Mountain Trail turns left and heads southeast.
The trail from the junction climbs up through lodgepole pine that is very dense. You can't see much beyond the trees. As you approach the final leg of the trail the forest opens up some allowing great views of the country side. Watch for families of blue grouse in this area. The trail reaches another intersection where it turns right and climbs 450 feet to Crosier Mountain. Another trail continues on back down to the North Fork of the Big Thompson River four miles to the south.
The final ascent to Crosier Mountain is about .5 miles long and is fairly steep in spots. The trail makes several switchbacks as it climbs the mountain. As you climb higher you get spectacular views to the east and south. The trail ends at the summit of Crosier Mountain where the views of Rocky Mountain National Park are magnificent.



Features:

Length:	3.75 miles (6 kilometers)
Elevation Range:	7,044' - 9,204'
Elevation change:	2,280 feet
Season:	June 1 - Oct 15
Difficulty:	Moderate
Use:	Moderate
USGS maps:	Glen Haven
Trailheads:	Crosier Mountain
Restrictions:	Pets must be on a leash
Suitable for mountain bikes:	Yes
Suitable for horses:	Yes

Vicinity Map

Altitude Profile

Directions:
Take Highway 34 west from Loveland for 17 miles to Drake. Turn right on County Road 43 and travel about 5.5 miles to the Crosier Mountain Trailhead. The trailhead is located on the left side of the road.

 

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