Chama River

The Chama River Trail is a 9.8-mile out-and-back hike located in Colorado near the town of Chama. With 663 feet of elevation gain, this moderately graded trail offers accessible hiking for a range of skill levels. The trail follows the scenic Chama River corridor, providing consistent water views throughout the journey. Managed by the Grand Valley Ranger District of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest, this trail is well-maintained and open to the public. The out-and-back format means hikers can turn around at any point, making it flexible for different fitness levels and time constraints. A full hike to the turnaround point and back covers nearly 10 miles of riverside walking. The trail's gentle elevation gain is spread across the distance, creating a manageable pace suitable for day hikers. The Chama River setting provides scenic views and access to a flowing waterway, making this a pleasant option for those seeking a riverside hike in Colorado's national forest system.