The CT Series is a special series of hiking articles about the Colorado Trail (CT) that runs from May through October. The CT is a unique and well maintained continuous trail, spanning 485 miles from Denver to Durango. The Colorado Mountain Club Guidebook to the Colorado Trail is an indispensable tool for planning and executing trail excursions. The book divides the CT into 28 segments of varying length. The Colorado Trail Foundation website (coloradotrail.org) also has a ton of useful information.

The drive to the CT South

Platte River Trailhead north of Deckers is an enjoyable journey. Beyond Deckers, as the roadway narrows and reduces to dirt, the scenery expands and grows with the meadow-lined river giving way to stunning rocky cliffs and house-sized boulders parked in the river. From Woodland Park, drive north on Highway 67 for about 23 miles to Deckers. Bear right to continue on Highway 67 that winds along the river. After about five miles Highway 67 cuts sharp right towards Sedalia, but stay straight to follow County

Road 97. Continue winding along the river for about 8.5 miles to the trailhead parking on the left, where a large metal trail bridge crosses the river.

Diverse landscapes are a