Breaking: Crosier Mountain Trail draws urgent focus today after a suspected fatal mountain lion attack in Colorado. Hikers are asking the same two questions. Is the trail open. How do I stay safe. I’m on this story now, talking with local officials and the outdoor community. Here is what matters if you plan to hike in the Estes Park area today.
What we know about access right now
Crosier Mountain sits in Roosevelt National Forest, above Glen Haven and near Estes Park. It is a classic Front Range day hike, loved by runners, dog walkers, and families. With meadows, ponderosa forest, and wide views, it is a go to for locals.
State wildlife officers are investigating a woman’s death that may involve a mountain lion in this region. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is leading the work. They use clear steps to confirm a predator encounter. That includes examining the scene, performing a necropsy on any animal found, and running DNA tests.
Land managers can issue temporary closures during an active investigation. Expect signs at trailheads and updates from the U.S. Forest Service and Larimer County. If you arrive and see tape, signage, or officers, turn back and choose another route. Safety comes first, for you and for the team doing its job.
If a trail or area is posted closed, do not enter. Follow instructions from rangers and wildlife officers on site.
Why Crosier Mountain matters to hikers
Crosier Mountain has three main access points, including trailheads near Glen Haven. Routes vary from moderate to long, with steady climbs and rolling meadows. The summit sits around 9,200 feet, with a big view toward the Divide. Dogs are allowed on leash. The mix of forest edge, deer activity, and rocky outcrops also makes it good mountain lion habitat.
That mix is not a reason to stay home forever. It is a reason to hike with skill. Fatal encounters are extremely rare here. If this case is confirmed, it would be the first deadly mountain lion encounter in Colorado since 1999. The risk exists, but it is low, and smart choices lower it more.
Mountain lion incidents are rare. Prepared hikers reduce risk even further with calm, visible, group travel.
How wildlife investigations work
Here is what happens after a suspected attack. Officers secure the scene. They collect evidence, including tracks, scat, and hair. If they locate a lion, they evaluate its behavior and health. A necropsy can reveal if the animal recently fed. DNA from wounds or a carcass can link an animal to an incident. This process can take days. During that time, access can change with little notice.
Why the caution. Mountain lions are solitary, often moving at dawn and dusk. Human encounters are uncommon. When they happen, it can be linked to prey patterns, cubs nearby, or a food stressed animal. The facts matter, and the lab work makes the facts clear.
Your smart plan for Crosier today
Plan like a pro. Keep your group tight, keep your voice up, and keep pets close. Aim for daylight hours, not dawn or dusk. Pack what you need, then slow down and stay aware.
- Check current alerts from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the U.S. Forest Service, and Larimer County before you drive
- Hike in groups, keep children within arm’s reach, and leash dogs short
- Carry water, layers, and a loud tool like a whistle
- Stay on trail and avoid thick brush where visibility is low
Make noise on blind curves and in brushy sections. Talk, clap, or use trekking poles on rock to announce your presence.
If you encounter a mountain lion
- Stop and stand tall. Do not run.
- Pick up small children. Keep pets behind you.
- Make yourself look larger. Open your jacket and raise your arms.
- Maintain eye contact. Speak firmly and back away slowly.
- If attacked, fight back with everything. Aim for the face and eyes.
The bottom line for your next hike
Crosier Mountain Trail is still the same beautiful climb you love. Today, it also sits in the shadow of a serious investigation. Respect any closures. Choose group hikes, daytime starts, and leashes that keep dogs close. Stay loud, stay alert, and keep your calm. With awareness and patience, you can protect your joy out there, and give officers the space they need to do their work. I will keep tracking status changes for hikers and runners who are ready to get back on the hill, safely.
