| The Crag Crest Trail was designated as a National Recreation Trail on March 14, 1978. The trail was established for recreational enjoyment, because it offers many scenic vistas and a unique display of geological history. The trail is a ten-mile long circular trail consisting of a crest portion and a loop portion.The crest section (6.5 miles) rises steeply from the east trailhead (at Crag Crest Campground) to the top of Crag Crest. From the west trailhead (north of Island Lake), the crest portion rises more gradually to the top of Crag Crest. Sections of the trail on the top of the ridge called Crag Crest are narrow with steep drop-offs on both sides. Views from this ridge extend in all directions. Hikers will enjoy views of landmarks such as, Book Cliffs, Battlement Mesa, the West Elk and San Juan Mountains. The loop portion provides an alternate return route.This trail has been rated moderate with extremely heavy usage. This 10-mile trail starts at 10,377 feet in elevation and ends at 10,152 feet. There is a total of 700 feet in elevation change. This trail is open to hikers, horses and bikes. |
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