CO - Lost Creek Wilderness Section

The Lost Creek Wilderness Section of the Colorado Trail passes through one of the most geologically distinctive landscapes in the state, where massive formations of pink Pikes Peak granite have been sculpted by millions of years of erosion into a surreal maze of domes, arches, and balanced rocks. The Colorado Trail threads through this rocky wonderland with views that feel more like the American Southwest than the typical forested mountain terrain of the Front Range.

Lost Creek itself disappears underground in multiple places along the canyon, giving the area its evocative name and creating a sense of mystery as the stream vanishes into and emerges from the rocky terrain. Dense stands of aspen and pine fill the valley floors between the granite formations. The wilderness sees moderate use despite its proximity to the Denver metro area, maintaining a relatively quiet backcountry character. Wildlife including mule deer, elk, and black bear are regularly encountered. The pink granite formations glow beautifully in the warm light of morning and evening, making this section particularly photogenic throughout the spring and fall hiking seasons.