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Everyone says the John Muir Trail is the best, but my trip on the Colorado Trail last month changed my mind
I hiked the JMT three years ago and it was great, but crowded. Last month I did a 75 mile section of the Colorado Trail from Monarch Pass to Twin Lakes. The views were just as big, but I saw maybe three other people a day. The trail itself felt more rugged and wild, not as polished. I think people get stuck on the famous name and miss other amazing routes. Has anyone else done both and felt the Colorado Trail is underrated?
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max8081mo ago
My buddy who works at the gear shop was just saying the same thing. He told me the Colorado Trail is the real deal if you want to get away from the crowds. I remember @grayt46 mentioned the Collegiate West loop, and that sounds exactly like what my buddy described. It makes sense that a less famous trail would feel more wild. I'd pick fewer people and more elk any day.
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grayt462mo ago
Monarch Pass to Twin Lakes is a solid choice. Honestly, the JMT feels like a theme park now with the permit lotteries and crowds. Did the Collegiate West loop a few years back and saw more elk than people. That kind of solitude changes the whole trip, makes it feel real. The Colorado Trail just lets you hike without all the fuss.
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