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    Colton Point State Park

    Hiking

    4 miles of trails

     

    The trails lead to many beautiful vistas and waterfalls, but traverse very rugged terrain, pass close to many steep cliffs, and may have slippery surfaces.

     

    Trails are subject to seasonal closure due to snow and ice, usually from December through April.

    Colton Point State Park Map

    Rim Trail

    1 mile  |  Easiest hiking  |  Loop trail  |  Yellow blazes
    Recreations permitted: hiking
    Trailhead amenities: non-flush restrooms, picnic tables, benches

    The Rim Trail offers several observation vistas where hikers can enjoy geological and natural views. It is perfect for families and hikers who don't have a lot of time.

    Turkey Path

    1.5 miles  |  Most difficult hiking  |  Out-and-back trail  |  Yellow blazes
    Recreations permitted: hiking
    Trailhead amenities: non-flush restrooms, potable water

    This difficult trail descends 1.5 miles to the floor of the canyon. It is a rustic, physically challenging trail featuring geological and wildlife watching opportunities. The highlight is a 70-foot cascading waterfall less than 0.5 mile down. The lowest parts of the trail run along a series of waterfalls. It is a down and back trail. There is no bridge across Pine Creek at the bottom. Trek back up the gorge to the starting point for a total of a 3-mile hike. 

    Caution! Hikers on the Turkey Path Trail should be in good physical condition, wear sturdy boots, and use caution due to slippery/wet conditions and steep trail sections.

    Trail Definitions

    Difficulty Ratings

    Easiest -- For beginner trail users. Grade is gentle with few obstacles.
    More Difficult -- For the majority of trail users. Grade is steeper and trails narrower with embedded rocks or roots on the trail surface.
    Most Difficult -- For trail users with advanced skills. Grade is steep and provides a definite physical challenge. Routes may not be well marked. Elevation gain or loss is severe.

    Trail Route Type

    Loop -- Start and end at the same location and follow a single trail to form a loop.
    Out-and-back -- Start and end at a trailhead and follow a single trail to an endpoint or specific point of interest, then return along the same route.
    Point-to-point -- Trails are generally longer in distance and parks may often contain only a portion of the trail within their boundary. Hiker starts and ends in different locations, often requiring a shuttle.
    Connector -- Begin and end in connection with another trail or trails but do not terminate at a trailhead.

    This difficult trail descends 1.5 miles to the floor of the canyon. The highlight is a 70-foot cascading waterfall less than 0.5 mile down. The lowest parts of the trail run along a series of waterfalls.

    It is a down and back trail. There is no bridge across Pine Creek at the bottom.

    Caution! Hikers on the Turkey Path Trail should be in good physical condition, wear sturdy boots, and use caution due to slippery/wet conditions and steep trail sections.

    Hiking Guidelines

    • Ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience while at the park by doing the following.
    • Always wear sturdy boots. Wearing sneakers, sandals, water shoes, and “street shoes” can lead to serious accidents in this park.
    • Be prepared with proper clothing and equipment (compass, map, matches, water, food, flashlight, etc.) available in case of an emergency. This is especially important when traveling remote trails or when hiking during non-summer seasons.
    • Give yourself plenty of time for your hike. Plan to be off the trails well before dark.
    • Watch the weather. Weather can change quickly in the park; be prepared.
    • Let someone know where you are hiking and when you should return.
    • Stay on the trails. Leaving the trail causes damage to unique natural resources, promotes erosion, and can be dangerous. Stay behind the railings and fences. Avoid the temptation to get on rock overhangs for a better view.
    • Don’t take shortcuts from one trail section to another. Taking shortcuts down switchbacks is dangerous and causes trail damage.