Jones Pass Trail
Jones Pass Trail (#96, ref: TR 96; ref:usfs: FS 96) is a moderate long-distance hiking route in the Arapaho National Forest near Empire, Colorado, forming a high-alpine section of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). The trail heads north from the Jones Pass Trailhead and eventually meets the Mt. Nystrom Trail (#13).
The climb rises well above treeline into exposed ridge terrain along the CDT corridor, with long stretches above 13,000 ft peaks. Expect a sustained “ridgeline intensity” profile as the route traverses alpine high points before reaching Jones Pass.
A popular access variation starts from the Herman Gulch Trailhead, follows Herman Gulch Trail (#98), then turns onto Jones Pass Trail (#96) toward the pass. This line of travel includes a ridge-top approach after Herman Gulch and can be extended as a day hike in either direction as conditions allow.
On foot, the route functions as a multi-use trail corridor tied to the Continental Divide Trail experience: hiking and trail running are common, and the same corridor is also used for mountain biking and off-roading farther along the Jones Pass Road system; the higher parts are exposed and wind-prone.
Seasonally, the pass is generally accessible mid-June through mid-November, but the high, exposed ridge can be windy and weather can shift quickly. Jones Pass Trailhead access is typically not available until mid-July, so late-season planning matters if you’re relying on that starting point.
Water and navigation planning are central here: the high ridge has limited natural water, and the route runs on sustained, high-elevation terrain. Plan on enough water for the full traverse/turnaround, and treat timing as part of the route—start early when weather is most stable.
Difficulty
Moderate