Twin Cone

Hidden gem. open for the first 5 miles. you may go through the first gate, just close it behind you. Tragically closed at the second gate due to trail braiding and people going off trail. there are just a few large rocks starting at the switchbacks that will require a high clearance vehicle. there is only one spot near the 2nd closed gate that merits a 4 difficulty. perfect beginner trail. Worth the hike to North Twin Cone Peak where you can see the entire south park basin, tenmile range, fairplay, and even pikes peak. It is peak leaf peeping season and there were over 100 cars lining Kenosha pass and the campground. past the 1st gate I had it all to myself except for a few sedans moping about the first flat mile by the time I got down. expect heavy traffic

NOTE: A number of trail reports have been listing this trail a Temporarily or Permanently closed which imo leads people to incorrect conclusions about whether or not to run the trail. The US Forest Service HAS erected a substantial gate at GPS 39.4148, -105.7013. This point is at 5.4 miles from the trailhead. As for the trail conditions-given that almost an inch of rain has fallen in the last week-were excellent.

USFS locked gate and signage indicating that the trail is no longer open to motorized vehicles from just below tree line to the top of Twin Cone.

The reports are still accurate. It’s NOT FULLY open. The top 1/4 is closed off with a gate and signs for no motor vehicle access. The open part of the trail is very easy.