Devils Causeway

The Devil's Causeway, Lost Lakes, and Chinese Wall Loop is a truly demanding hike, covering 19.3 miles (31.1 km) with 3976 feet (1212 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 9 hours and 31 minutes. This difficult route immerses you in the Flat Tops Wilderness, guiding you through forested areas, past serene alpine lakes like Causeway Lake, and across vast tundra. The highlight is undoubtedly the Devil's Causeway, a famously narrow ridge with dramatic drops that offers unparalleled 360-degree views, making it a thrilling experience for those without a fear of heights.

To tackle this advanced hiking route, plan to start early from the Stillwater Trailhead, as parking can be limited. Given the high altitudes, often above 11,000 feet, be ready for rapid weather changes and ensure you carry plenty of water, as sources can be scarce in exposed sections. Always check the forecast and trail conditions, especially for snow, which can persist well into the summer months, and be aware of potential afternoon thunderstorms.

This loop is notable not just for its physical challenge but also for its unique geology and rich history. The Flat Tops Wilderness, Colorado's second-largest wilderness area, is characterized by its distinctive basaltic cap and mesa-like features, a stark contrast to the jagged peaks found elsewhere in the state. Hiking here offers a deep dive into a remote backcountry setting, traversing diverse ecosystems from pine forests to expansive alpine tundras, and providing a sense of solitude and adventure that sets it apart from more crowded trails.

The Devil's Causeway is a truly unique hiking experience in the Flat Tops Wilderness, offering a thrilling journey across a narrow natural land bridge. You'll start with serene views of Stillwater Reservoir and wildflower-filled meadows before the trail climbs steeply, leading to the dramatic, exposed Causeway itself. This geological marvel, sometimes just 3 to 4 feet wide, connects two sections of the plateau, providing unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views that make the 2.9-mile (4.7 km) route, with its 1423 feet (434 metres) of elevation gain, feel incredibly rewarding.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to the weather; the trail reaches 11,800 feet, and conditions can shift quickly. It's best to avoid the crossing if it's wet, windy, or stormy due to the significant exposure. Access is via the Stillwater Trailhead, where parking is available, but arriving early is recommended, especially during summer months, to secure a spot and beat any afternoon weather.

What makes the Devil's Causeway truly notable is its extreme narrowness and the adrenaline-pumping exposure it provides, a feature that sets it apart from many other trails. This natural land bridge, formed by past glaciation, is a testament to the unique

The Devils Causeway Loop is a truly iconic Colorado hike, taking you through diverse terrain from wildflower-filled meadows with views of Stillwater Reservoir to high alpine tundra. The route's defining feature is the Devils Causeway itself, a narrow, exposed land bridge that offers an adrenaline-pumping experience and unparalleled 360-degree views of the Flat Tops. You'll also encounter impressive geological features like the Chinese Wall formation and peaceful spots such as Little Causeway Lake along the way.

This is a challenging 10.3-mile (16.5 km) hiking route with 1616 feet (493 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 56 minutes. The trail involves a steep ascent over talus slopes to reach the ridgeline, and the highest point is around 11,800 feet above sea level. Be aware that parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so plan for an early start to secure a spot at the trailhead.

What makes this trail particularly notable is the extreme exposure of the Devils Causeway, which narrows to just 3 to 4 feet wide with sheer drops on both sides. While the footing is generally stable, it's a section that many hikers find terrifying and may even crawl across. Rapidly changing weather, including afternoon thunderstorms, is common, and it's crucial to avoid the Causeway during high winds for safety.