Water question - The Colorado Trail

imported
#1

How likely is there to be water at the locations marked with a half cup in “The Colorado Trail Databook?”

Gershon

#2

Databook half-cup water locations likely to have water early season. Less likely in later season, August & September.

On Track

#3

The spring listed in the guidebook as 1.2 mi. into Section 4 was dry last year in early July. Even if there had been water in it, the scum at the bottom of the muddy hole looked nasty. However, there as a small stream 0.25 mi. before the end of Section 3 and several seasonal streams about 2 miles into Section 4.

D6

#4

One source that does not dry up is the firehouse faucet at the end of Section 2. I encourage all hikers to tap that source, for the next 13 miles are high and dry.

TrailGuy

#5

When I went through the trail last year I had no problem finding water at any place with a half cup or full cap in the data book. I went through in late June and Early July.

Really plan out Segment 2 unless you are used to hiking in Colorado. That part really beat me up. The firehouse was a life saver use it they do not mind.

professor

#6

For most of the trail I have always carried one liter of water and a filter and that’s all. I drink a lot when I find water and filter another liter. I carry a empty liter bottle for camp and for the occasional dry stretches.

I have filled and carried the extra bottle in segments 2, 16, and 27. I have not really needed it in 16 but there are years when Razor Creek gets really dry.

For Segment 27 you should fill up in Segment 26 shortly after Blackhawk Pass either at at a fantastic spring at about mile 7.5 or 1/2 mile below there in Straight Creek. That may be the last water until Cumberland Basin at mile 19.4 of Seg 27. (22.3 miles from the spring) I have always had a dry camp in the vicinity of Orphan Butte then headed up and over Indian Trail Ridge early. The ridge is a lightning magnet and it’s a good idea to get off of it before noon.

bearcreek

#7

Fire station folks invite and encourage CT travelers to use their WATER SPIGOT OUTSIDE ON NORTHEAST CORNER OF FIRE HOUSE. They prefer hydrated CT users who don’t need rescue to dehydrated and delirious ones needing help.

On Track

#8

Please, please make sure and turn it off tightly when you are finished. Thanks. I think every hiker I have started on the CT has received my comments about this wonderfully placed water tap.

TGuy

TrailGuy

#9

and the 1st “half cup” source after the firehouse was just moist earth last week. Not far to the next one though.

Hardcore