Trailblazer: The Colorado Trail takes place over the course of six weeks (rounds) that represent around eighty miles of actual trail distance traveled per week. Along the way, players can experience off-trail adventures such as river rafting, climbing 14ers, hot springs, horseback riding, biking, or even taking a ride on a historic train! The more you adventure, the more columbines — Colorado's state flower, which are the game's points — you gain. Columbines can also be acquired by taking in the amazing vistas, going over mountain passes, or spending time by the numerous lakes, rivers, and creeks. The numerous flowers, trees, birds, and animals discovered and observed on your journey can help you earn needed supplies and score more columbines.

Players need to manage their supplies as they journey on the Colorado Trail, gain rungs on the elevation ladder, and move along the unique adventure path. Each player must organize and play their deck of action cards to maximize their abilities, adventures, and actions.

—description from the publisher