Lobo Pass Trail + Continental Divide Trail

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail system (CDT) is a work in progress that spans 3,100 miles and crosses four states. Many stretches of the trail cross wide swaths of wilderness, one of the largest being the Weminuche Wilderness in southern Colorado, where this recommended hike is located. This part of the trail starts at the Lobo Overlook just above Wolf Creek Pass on highway 160. The dirt road to the overlook passes a large antenna farm just before the end, and this trail starts behind the antenna building where there is parking available. The short spur trail intersects with the CDT in about a quarter of a mile, and this adventures takes a right turn to head north. The trail follows a ridge and then opens up onto soft hills that undulate as far as the eye can see. There are views of the Wolf Creek ski area and down the valley of Wolf Creek to the confluence with the San Juan River flowing to Pagosa Springs. The high peaks to the southeast are a continuation of the Continental Divide as it crosses into New Mexico over the Sangre de Cristo mountains. Unfortunately, the extent of the die-off of lodgepole pines from beetle kill in this area is obvious. The trail is fairly flat as it winds around the several shoulders, and the best views are on the first mile or so, but the trail goes on forever and can be the start of a multi-day trip or just a day hike. Spruce Lakes makes a good backpacking destination, and they are about 7 miles from the Lobo Trailhead.