A solo hiker with an orange pack walks through a lush alpine meadow toward dramatic Rocky Mountain peaks.
Day Hike

Trail Head - Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

(81)
Grand Lake, CO

Reviews (81)

See all on Google
4.8

81 reviews

Write a review
David Lobree
David Lobree

a month ago

We visited in early July 2026 looking for an easy hike with great views, and this spot did not disappoint! The route: Follows the scenic shoreline of Shadow Mountain Reservoir. Cool fact: It’s actually a short section of the 3,100-mile Continental Divide Trail (CDT). Distance: Very flexible—we only went about a mile out and back, but the trail continues on for miles if you're looking for a longer trek.

Jennifer Pulido
Jennifer Pulido

4 months ago

This hike took us an ENTIRE day and humbled us real quick 😅 We came as a group of 7 (3 women, 3 men, and a 7 year old), all from Houston… so yeah, zero elevation experience. This trail is NO joke if you’re not used to it. It was definitely challenging for us, especially with the altitude and constant incline. That being said… it was absolutely beautiful. The views, the nature, everything made it worth it. We took a lot of breaks (shoutout to the 7 year old and us Texas girls who needed a moment lol), and we actually got SO close to making it to the tower but had to turn back because it was getting late and we didn’t want to be stuck coming down in the dark. I will say, this is not super kid-friendly, especially if you’re trying to complete the full trail. It would’ve been more manageable without a child, but we still made amazing memories. Overall, we had such a great time, and this is definitely something we all want to come back and finish. Unfinished business for sure. We WILL be back for that tower.

Jesse Herrera
Jesse Herrera

2 months ago

The East shore trail was our very first biking trail and I must say that it was fun! It was an easy trail for a first timer with 2 kids, 13 and 11. We biked, then hiked from the opposite side on a different day. Great views but very little wild life.

Jeffrey R
Jeffrey R

2 years ago

Super nice. Easy hike. Lots of runners on this particular section of the trail. You are able to ride your bike. I suggest riding your bike early in the morning to avoid so many people. Great views of the lake along the way and if you have a chance, get to the lookout Tower if you want to add a little extra adventure

Brenda Albano
Brenda Albano

a year ago

Well maintained trail and other than a few steep parts it is relatively easy. Heard hummingbirds, and woodpeckers. Saw bees and butterflies and blue dragonflies. Saw a chipmunk. Enjoyed the wind in the pines and the lake lapping at the shore.

Powered by Google

Nearby