Carson National Forest
Columbine Creek Trail 71

Questa Ranger District

Elevations:

• Trail Beginning: 8,000 ft
• Trail End: 11,200 ft

From Taos take State Road 522 north to Questa. At the traffic light, turn right on State Road 38 and go about 6 miles to Columbine Campground. Trailhead parking is at the south end of the campground (parking in a camping spot will incur a camping fee). Drinking water and toilets are available near the trailhead parking.

The trail follows Columbine Creek, crossing the creek four times on wooden foot bridges in the first two miles. The first three miles of the trail are rated easy to moderate. At about four miles in, the trail begins a steep rise to the ridgeline with several switchbacks to control the grade. About 6 miles in, the trail reaches the ridgeline at about 11,200 feet where it intersects with the Gavilan Trail 60, which descends to Hondo Canyon and then to Amizette (about 1.5 miles). Columbine Trail also provides access to Deer Creek, Placer Creek and Willow Fork Trails, all of which are routes to Gold Hill.

Many of Columbine's stream crossing may have high water flows during the spring snowmelt. Making this hike with a partner is highly recommended. Snow drifts are common on the trail into June and whenever there is snow on the heights above, beware of the avalanche danger.

Rating: Beginner to intermediate for the first three miles, then changing classification to expert because of steep terrain.

USGS Quad: Questa