Sidebar by Sharon Chickering
Hagerman – September 1994 – Colorado Central Magazine
The Colorado Midland Centennial Trail can be reached from Leadville by taking Lake County Road 4 around the south shore of Turquoise Lake. Turn onto Forest Road 105, the Hagerman Pass Road, and continue for 3.7 miles to the Carlton Tunnel.
The Carlton Tunnel, built in 1890 to replace the Hagerman Tunnel, and later used for auto traffic, now serves for water diversion.
Continue up the bumpy road another mile to a parking area. An informational sign describes the trail, with an arrow pointing the way.
Because afternoon thunderstorms are common, this walk is best enjoyed in the morning. At these elevations, it is smart to carry a sweater or jacket, as well as a water bottle — hiking can be thirsty work, and drinking from creeks can be risky.