Route: RMNP CDT Loop (CO)

Lawton Grinter posted the route:

The RMNP CDT Loop (Rocky Mtn Nat Park Continental Divide Trail Loop) is a 24.3-mile loop on the less crowded southwest side of the park just north of the town of Grand Lake. The loop begins and ends at the North Inlet Trailhead (8,525’), which is accessible by 2WD vehicles. The route spends approximately 6 miles above treeline and tops out at tundra-covered Ptarmigan Point (12,363). Much of the route below treeline is shaded by pines, spruce & fir and contains ample water sources that make for short water carries. An icy cold soak in Tonahutu Creek is a welcome treat to any runner having just completed the loop!

From the trailhead, the trail heads east 6.7 miles on the North Inlet Trail and gradually increases in elevation to the junction with Lake Nanita Trail (9,725’). From this point the trail climbs 2,600’ over 4.6 miles to the junction with the Flattop Mountain Trail. At this junction, the trail heads west on the Tonahutu Creek Trail 3.8 miles across tundra and descends over technical trail to the Timberline camping area (10,600’). Another 4.2 miles of shaded trail will take you to the junction with a north-heading trail to the Onahu camping area (9,450’). From this point you head south remaining on the Tonahutu Creek Trail bordering scenic Big Meadows 5.0 miles back to the North Inlet Trailhead.