The Switchback Trail #705 descends off the rim of the Grand Mesa through a series of switchbacks and drops almost 1000 feet in elevation in less than a mile. However, because of the superior design of the trail, the trail climbs at a gradual grade. The trails location provides many scenic view points of the Kannah Creek Basin and surrounding area.
Geo-Ref Trail Map Geo-Reference Instructions
Directions
UPPER ACCESS:
Travel west on the Lands End Road, FSR #100, from its intersection with Highway 65 for approximately 8.1 miles to its intersection with the Switchback Trailhead. The Switchback Trail forks left, south, off the Lands End Road just before crossing a cattleguard.
LOWER ACCESS:
From Grand Junction, travel southeast on Highway 50 for approximately 11.2 miles to its junction with Lands End Road, FSR #100. Turn left and travel on the Lands End Road for approximately 14 miles to the Wild Rose Picnic Grounds. The picnic grounds are locatd on the right side of the Lands End Road. The Coal Creek Trailhead is located at the far end of this picnic area. Travel east on the Coal Creek Trail #702 for 4 miles to the Lower Switchback Trailhead.
GPS Coordinates
Latitude 0° 0′ 0.0000″ S
Longitude 0° 0′ 0.0000″ W