Donner Pass Trail

The Donner Pass Trail is a long one — close to nine miles of dirt tread winding through the backcountry of the Canyon Lakes Ranger District, in the folded, forested hills of northwest Larimer County. It's stitched together from two named segments that meet near the middle, so on the map it reads as one continuous line running roughly north–south. This is multi-use country: COTREX lists it open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horses, with dogs welcome, over a natural dirt surface the whole way. It isn't a marquee, crowded trail — and that's exactly its appeal for anyone looking to trade the pavement for a long, unhurried day in the trees.

Because it covers so much ground, plan for a real outing rather than a quick stroll: carry water, watch the weather, and give yourself time. The trail is managed by the USFS Canyon Lakes Ranger District, and conditions on a backcountry route like this can change with the season — downed timber, muddy stretches after rain, and lingering snow at the higher, shadier turns. We're honest about what we don't have: this listing is built from COTREX mapping and general area knowledge, not a foot-by-foot survey, so confirm the current trailhead, parking, and any closures with the Canyon Lakes Ranger District before you head out.

Trail Facts

Getting There

Donner Pass Trail sits in the backcountry of the Canyon Lakes Ranger District in northwest Larimer County, running north–south between about 40.488°N (south end) and 40.581°N (north end). Access is by forest road off the drainages in this part of the district — confirm the exact trailhead, road condition, and parking on the map and with the Canyon Lakes Ranger District before you go, as the approach roads can be rough and seasonal.

Know Before You Go

• Multi-use. COTREX lists Donner Pass open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horses on a dirt surface, with dogs allowed — share the trail and yield thoughtfully.
• It's long. At nearly nine miles it's one of the bigger trails in our area — plan a full day, carry water and layers, and turn around with plenty of daylight to spare.
• Motorized use varies by segment. COTREX flags the northern segment as open to motorcycles but not the southern one, so expect the character of the trail to change along its length — check current signage on the ground.
• Check current conditions. This is backcountry in the Canyon Lakes Ranger District; downed timber, mud, and lingering snow are all possible. Confirm access and closures with the district before you head out.