Introduction
The Crags is a very popular hiking trail and one that is easy enough for lowlands visitors, so we often take family members who are visiting on this hike. The Crags trail is an all-encompassing Colorado trail including the various trees, a butterfly meadow, towering rocky crags, and a gorgeous view of the valley.
Trail Rating
- Boots: Two boots in most places
- Kids: Definitely, this is a good one for kids
- Dogs: Absolutely, on a leash
- Facilities: Yup, at the trail head, but not along the trail
What to Bring
The two things you cannot go hiking in Colorado without: your jacket and lots of water. Ok, that's the usual stuff, but you will also want to bring snacks on this trail especially if you have smaller hikers along with you. Raisins and nuts are great for kids.
It is important to know that a particularly aggressive group of chipmunks lives at the top of this trail. This group of chipmunks are known to beg for food and it is difficult to resist them. I admit to dropping shelled sunflower seeds for them myself, but we are warned repeatedly by the forest service and other environmentally-conscious folks not to feed the animals. This is important for many reasons, not the least of which is the the problem of the animals' continued dependence upon humans. Thank you Jacob for the reminder and I've passed it along here. I appreciate your help.
How to Get There
From Colorado Springs, take Highway 24 west past Woodland Park to Divide. Turn south on Highway 67 and drive four miles to a left on Forest Service Road #383. Signs indicate the turn to the Crags Campgrounds. The road turns quickly to gravel. This gravel road is recommended for vehicles with higher clearance, although I have seen cars take the road well in the summer with very careful driving. Drive approximately five miles to the Crags campground. Park at the east end of the campground.
Caution: The road is narrow and difficult in some places, so take the curves slowly. You may have to back up to let another vehicle pass.
Trail Specifics
This trail can be hiked by children who are in the medium ability range. Very small children can handle most portions of this trail, but may have to ride in a pack for the last portion of the trail. This is a very lovely trail in all seasons and in most cases, it is easy to get to.
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