Are dogs allowed on Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail?

No, Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail?

Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail is rated expert. It is 15.0 miles long with 3,858 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail?

Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail is best hiked in summer and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Is Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail suitable for kids?

Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Colorado trail conditions

Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail route map

ExpertLoop

Roosevelt National Forest/Colorado

Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail

Nederland, Colorado

15.0 mi

Distance

3,858 ft

Elev. Gain

6h 46m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Devils Thumb Pass and King Lake Trail is a challenging loop located in the Roosevelt National Forest near Nederland, Colorado. Spanning 15 miles with an elevation gain of 3,858 feet, this trail climbs to a peak elevation of 3,689 meters (12,103 feet) amidst the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies. Offering stunning alpine views, this expert-level trail is primarily surfaced with dirt, making it suitable for experienced hikers seeking a demanding adventure. Featuring diverse landscapes, the trail meanders through forested areas before reaching the exposed heights of the pass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

steep elevation gainexposed ridgeline

Elevation Profile

Min:2,739 ft

Max:3,689 ft

1,176 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by United States Forest Service

Verify before you go

Managing agency

United States Forest Service
Find offices, alerts, and current orders for this agency.

Verify by phone or mail

Address:CO

Best Seasons

Summer Fall

Highlights

alpine viewsforest setting

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context