The Rainbow Trail (RT) is an interesting continuous trail that spans about 100 miles. It stretches from the southern end of the Sawatch Range in the Poncha Pass Area eastward then southward along the east facing slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains down to the Music Pass area. Trail access is rather difficult in some areas but the trailhead near Horn Creek is quite accessible with a parking area and trail that leads directly to the RT.

The Sangre de Cristos near Westcliffe with their east facing sunny slopes tend to be warmer and more snow free than other ranges farther north. Depending on snow levels, I have often been able to enjoy snow-free trails there in the shoulder hiking months of April and November. Heading into early November this year, the Sangres had some snow above treeline but minimal amounts at lower elevations along the trail.

From Woodland Park, drive less than two hours to the lovely hamlet of Westcliffe and continue south on 6th St./Hwy. 69. Quickly depart the town and continue through the open grassland of Westcliffe valley for about 3.5 miles and turn right on County Road 140/Schoolfield Lane. Drive west for about 1.75 miles, turn left on CR 129/Macey Lane and drive south for about 2 miles then turn right on CR 130/Horn Road. Continuing west the impressive 13er Horn Peak rises with its extended dramatic slope to the pyramidal summit, with Little Horn Peak perched below and to the left. After about another three miles, enter conifer forest where the pleasant drive ends at the trailhead parking area at about 9000 feet.

Begin hiking southward along an old road with a sign for the RT. The approach road/trail connects to a signed T-intersection at the RT after about a half mile. Cut left to continue southward towards Macey Creek. After a few hundred yards cross a bridge over Horn Creek and after about another .75 mile cross the drainage of Stanton Creek and some nice stands of aspen. Views begin to open up to the east of Westcliffe Valley and the Wet Mountains beyond and after about another two miles pass Macey Trail. Cross a bridge over Macey Creek and continue southward towards North Colony Creek.

The trail crosses a couple drainages of Hardnack Creek as it winds in and out along the ridge contour, hovering at about 10,000 feet. The trail swings eastward for an extended stretch and after about another 2.25 miles reach a sharp switchback that cuts right and drops southwest for about another half mile down to North Colony Creek. Enjoy a lunch break in the shady creek setting before retracing the route back to the trailhead.

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Joe LaFleur is a hiking enthusiast that hits the trails weekly. He has successfully summited over 150 unique 13ers and 14ers in Colorado. Contact Joe with questions or feedback at joe@betterbirdwatching.com. Hiking is great exercise but can be hazardous. Always be sure to plan well, check the weather, bring a printed map, tell someone where and when you are going and contact them when you return safely.