I am considering hiking the CT next year and have some basic questions. First, when is the best time of year to hike? Second, do I need a permit, as in the case of the JMT? Third, what is the terrain like, as compared to the JMT? I know the average elevation is higher, but what the terrain. And lastly, how close are the transportation centers to the trail?
TRIHIKER
Mags has a really good page about hiking the CT that will answer all of your questions. Look in past threads on the CT for the URL. I know a few of the answers - no permit is needed, the terrain is mostly high alpine meadows, hike in late June, July, August or September. The trail starts in Denver and ends in Durango - both have airports. You will have mosquitoes in June and can have snow in September. Flowers are best earlier, aspen turn golden at the end of September. We met some CT hikers in mid-June, but most were met in early July.
Ginny
A good source of information about the CT may be found at www.coloradotrail.net. This is the homepage of the Colorado Trail Foundation. You will find a load of stuff here and several additional links. Also, try www.pmags.com. This is an exceptional guide by a hiker who knows the trail from every angle. I discoved that the permits are self-issued on the trail as you pass through some of the wilderness areas. Just sign in and take a tag with you.
Have fun.
JDCool
Thanks for the information. I have a choice to make, which trail to hike next year? I was thinking about hiking the Long Trail, until I started looking at the Colorado Trail. I have only two weeks to devote each year, so I can do the LT, but in the case of the CT, I would have to do it in two years. I like the higher elevations and wilderness areas in the west, but I was looking forward in the shelters in the east. I will do both trails, but in what order?
TRIHIKER
Thanks for the kind words. One of my winter projects is updating my resupply mileage with the new databook. Will have to add a blurb about permits and bears (based on questions I have been asked).
The biggest change in resupply is that Copper Mtn no longer accepts hiker packages. 
Oh well…Frisco is very easy to get to with the free bus system and is quick enough to do a “hit and run” resupply.
Anyway, as for the LT vs. CT…
Keep in mind that the LT is, in some ways, harder than the CT in terms of grade. The northern part of the LT still has the most rugged mileage consistently of all the trails I have hiked. So, a two-week paces is do-able if you are n shape for it, have a light pack and are motivated…but don’t kill yourself doing it. 
The LT vs the CT comes down to most East vs. West hiking: Eastern Trails: tough physically, easier logistically
Western Trails: easier physically, more difficult logistially
If you are new to long distance hiking, the LT is probably a better choice as you have convenient places to hole-up if you need a day of rest and or decide you want to end the trip earlier.
The CT? Well, I am biased. Think the scenery is more dramatic naturally! Though, the LT in the Fall would b awesome!
Both trails will be great adventure. Good luck!
Paul Mags
LT in 2 weeks no problem, huh? maybe, but it isn’t worth it. i did it in three (21 days almost to the minute) and that was way too fast. the trail goes by too quick. what’s the point?
JD