Hiking Trails Overview Chances are you can the type of trail you are looking for in Telluride. Trails leave in every direction and there is a wide variety of terrain, making it easy to find a hike to suits your needs. The scenery is always outstanding in Telluride, but most trails pass a waterfall, lake or river, and all reach spectacular scenic overlooks.
Jed Wiebe Trail Trailhead: The trailhead starts at the north end of Aspen Street.
• Distance: 3 miles round trip • Elevation Gain: 1,420 feet • Difficulty: Moderate • Trail Type: Loop
The Jed Wiebe trail, named after a Forrest Service Recreation Manager that passed away in 1986, transverses the north hills of Telluride and has great views of town, the ski area, Bear Creek and the Wilson Range. It begins with a steep climb but mellows out into wide meadows and shady forest …a staple of Telluride hiking. Due to the steep ascent and the lack of available drinking water, this hike may not be suitable for young children or dogs.
To simply reach Cornet Falls, go straight (instead crossing the bridge) and follow the creek .25 miles to falls. Deep Creek Trail
• Distance: 6.5 miles • Elevation Gain: 1,940 feet • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate • Trail Type: Out and Back • Time: 4 – 5 Hours
This is a good trail for early and late season hiking due to its southern exposure and lower elevation. There are some steep sections on either end of the trail. It is located almost entirely in aspen timber with a few scattered spruce and fir stands. The trail has panoramic views of the ski area and the San Juan Mountains. Waterfalls can be seen along the east end of the trail in the Mill Creek Basin.
To get to the eastern trail access from Telluride drive west 1 mile on Highway 145 to Forest Service Road 637 (Mill Creek Road) near the Shell gas station. Turn right on Mill Creek Road and follow it approximately 1.5 miles to the Telluride Town reservoir. This is a high clearance road not recommended for passenger cars. There is parking near the reservoir. To get to the western access for this trail from Telluride drive west 2.5 miles on Highway 145 to Forest Road 638 (Last Dollar Road). Turn right on Last Dollar Road and follow the road for about 3 miles. Turn right to enter the trailhead parking lot. This can be access via Jed Wiebe a couple in from the Aspen Street Trailhead entrance. From the Jed Wiebe, the trail will take you west and end at Last Dollar Road.
This trail receives heavy bike use. Hikers use caution. Bikers please yield to hikers and horses. Open to: hikers, horses and mountain bikers.
Galloping Goose Trail
• Distance: 16.5 miles one way • Elevation Gain: • Difficulty: Easy to Moderately Strenuous Sections • Trail Type: Out and Back
Most of this trail follows the old Rio Grande Southern Railroad from Lizard Head Pass to Society Turn near Telluride. This route once had over 140 bridges and trestles, of which only one remains today. Incredible views of mountain peaks, old historic structures and scenic lakes and streams await those who venture out on this trail. Portions of this trail share forest and county roads. Other sections have steep grades and get light use. The trail is marked by the Galloping Goose logo beginning at Lizard Head Pass. This popular mountain biking trail can be done in sections or in its entirety. It offers a challenge without being overly technical.
Most Telluride visitors will access Galloping Goose Trail near Lawson’s Hill just off of CO145, which is 3 miles west of town. There is an undeveloped parking area available. Just follow well marked signs. To get to the trailhead at Lizard Head Pass from Telluride drive about 3 miles to Highway 145 (Society Turn). Turn left heading south for about 11 miles to Lizard Head Pass. There is a rest area and interpretive site on the right side of the highway. The trailhead is on the left side of the highway on Forest Service Road 626.
Open to: hikers, horses and mountain bikers.
Sneffels High Line Trail
• Distance: 12.7 miles loop • Elevation Gain: 3,380 feet • Difficulty: Strenuous • Trail Type: Loop
This trail is one of the most challenging and rewarding day hikes in the area. It climbs up into the high country of the Mount Sneffels Wilderness above timberline. It passes by old cabin ruins, mines and streams.
When planning this hike, get any early start to avoid afternoon thunderstorms in the summer. The eastern access for this trail is from the Jud Wiebe trailhead at the top of Aspen Street. Follow the Jud Wiebe uphill as it crosses a bridge and swings west ascending on a broad track. As you climb views open to downtown Telluride and the ski area across the valley. In 0.8 miles (670-ft. gain) go left at the Deep Creek (#418) trail junction. (Jud Wiebe turns right.) Cross Butcher creek and in about 300-ft. arrive at a second junction signed for the Sneffels Highline (#434) and Deep Creek (to the left).
It is recommended to hike counter-clockwise, going right (north) at the Highline trail and returning via the Deep Creek Trail. While initially steeper, you will get over the high point in the trail early in the day before the onset of afternoon thunder storms, a frequent occurrence on summer afternoons in the Rockies
Cornet Falls
• Distance: 1.8 mile loop • Elevation Gain: 530 feet • Difficulty: Easy/Moderate • Trail Type: Loop
Visible from Telluride's gondola, the 80-foot Cornet Falls is the town's most accessible cascade. Get a closer look at this photogenic landmark on a 0.9-mile hike north of downtown. Begin by heading north on Aspen Street to the Jud Wiebe Trailhead and continuing north on the right (east) side of Cornet Creek. Skip the left turn for the Jud Wiebe Trail and follow the narrower path alongside the creek, climbing a set of rock steps and several switchbacks that gain altitude faster than the creek itself.
Cliffs on both sides of the ravine close-in at trail end where a great view of the water spilling over the rocky shelf awaits. Though the pool is small, a few hundred feet of scrambling over the scree field to the right will land you at the base of the 80-foot shower. If the water volume isn't bolstered by spring melts—or choked by summer heat—spend a minute cooling down underneath it before you turn around and head back to town.
Bear Creek Trail
This is one of the most popular Telluride hiking trails for people and their pups. The trail is wide, the grade is mild and there’s a dazzling waterfall to cap it off. Most people just walk this trail as an “out and back”. It is not uncommon to see young children on the trail, but you’ll likely need to take several rest stops along the way. Approximately ¾ of the way, you will come across an area where visitors and locals have created rock monuments, or Cairns. Consider grabbing a sack lunch from “The Brown Bag” café and eating at the waterfalls. Be sure to bring water.
“Little Hawaii” Detour There is also a secret unmarked trail that the locals refer to as “Little Hawaii”. Approximately ¾ of mile into the trip, the trail will meander back to the edge of Bear Creek where you will find a high cliff overlooking a small canyon created by the creek. It will be past the map marker, but before you enter the first mountain meadow. Look back for a steep trail that leads down to the river. A hiking pole is recommended due to the slippery and steep trail. Walk up the river (and prepare for wet shoes) until you find a cascading waterfall and overhang carved out by the creek.
Trailhead: Starts at the south end of Pine St
• Distance: 2.5 miles one-way • Elevation Gain: 1,050 ft. • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate • Trail Type: Out and Back • 2 hours round trip
Mystic Falls
Mystic Falls is one of the hidden gems of Telluride located near the community of Ames. See driving directions in the Off Road – Self Guided section in the previous section.
Take the trailhead to the left, which will wind behind the first unnamed falls about 100 yards and then you will find yourself on top of Mystic Falls on top of a narrow canyon. The hike down the canyon is well worth it and considered moderate/challenging, but manageable for most adults and older kids. Walking/Hiking sticks are highly recommended given the steep terrain. The trail will down the canyon and then fork off towards the river basin. Be sure to bring water, snacks, hiking poles and shift hiking shoes.
Wasatch Trail
• Distance: 12.3 miles (round trip) • Elevation: 8,800-ft. - 13,050-ft. • Elevation Gain: 4,250-ft. • Difficulty: strenuous
Many people hike beautiful Bear Creek Canyon to the waterfall. Fewer continue beyond, up canyon on the Wasatch trail.
The steep hike to the upper part of the canyon and into the Wasatch Basin is worth the effort. On the lower section of the Wasatch hikers are rewarded with dramatic views of the sculpted and highly eroded walls of the Bear Creek drainage. The upper section traverses beautiful flower-filled alpine meadows nestled in a narrow cirque beneath Wasatch Mountain and the San Joaquin Ridge before climbing to a 13,050-ft. divide separating Bear Creek and Bridal Veil Basin.
It is possible to make a long loop out of the hike by crossing the saddle and returning via Bridal Veil Basin. Walking the entire loop, including the road down from the Bridal Veil Power Plant and back to downtown Telluride is about 14.3 miles. The better option is to get dropped at the Bridal Veil Power plant and do the hike in reverse, up Bridal Veil basin and down the Wasatch. This reduces the elevation gain to 2,650-ft from 4,250-ft. and cuts 4.0-miles off the trip. See Forever / Bear Creek Loop
•Distance: 5.0 - 8.3 miles (loop) •Elevation: 10,540-ft. - 12,100-ft. •Elevation Gain: 1,560-ft. •Difficulty: moderate / strenuous (starting from Town Park)
This interesting loop hike, starting at the St. Sophia gondola station in the Telluride Ski Area, is actually a combination of four trails, the See Forever, the Wasatch Connector, a segment of the Wasatch trail and the Bear Creek trail.
Be forewarned that the See Forever portion of the hike traverses ski slopes and follows gravel ski service roads. While I am typically not a big fan of road walking or hiking in ski areas the panoramic views of peaks rising above the Telluride Valley and the Lizard Head Wilderness more than compensate for the less than desirable trail conditions for the first 2.5 miles of the hike to the Wasatch Connector trail.
Just 0.5 miles down the Wasatch Connector trail you leave the ski area behind and head for the beautiful upper basin of the Bear Creek drainage and dramatic Bear Creek Canyon. This portion of the trail enjoys wonderful views of the Wasatch basin, the incredible peaks defining the north wall of the Telluride Valley and the sculpted cliffs of the Bear Creek canyon.
Bridal Veil Trail
• Distance: 4 miles round trip • Elevation Gain: 1,650 feet • Difficulty: Moderate • Trail Type: Out and Back • Time: 2 hours
This hike follows a four-wheel road up to North America’s highest waterfall. It is not much of a trail as far as trails go, but the waterfall is great. Consider driving up to Bridal Falls for a view (noting very limited parking) and then park and hike up to Silver Lake.
Trailhead: Follow the River Trail east out of town or drive east on Colorado Avenue to the parking lot near old Pandora Mill.
Silver Lake/Blue Lake Trail Trailhead: The trailhead starts above Bridal Veil Falls.
• Distance: 6.0 miles (round trip) • Elevation: 10,400-ft. - 12,220-ft. • Elevation Gain: 1,820-ft. • Difficulty: moderate-strenuous • Time: 4 hours round trip
Wildflowers and waterfalls abound on this pretty walk up Bridal Veil Basin to a large alpine lake set in a stark glacial cirque at 12,220-ft. Along the way the trail passes historic mining structures including the remains of an old tram, mining cabins and a bunkhouse. More mining debris is scattered around the lake.
Getting to the start of this hike is its own adventure. The 4WD road leading to the trailhead switchbacks up the headwall of Telluride’s box canyon, providing terrific views of Telluride, Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s longest freefalling waterfall, and the historic power plant atop the falls. Start early to avoid bad weather.
Driving directions: Drive east through Telluride on Colorado Avenue for a little over 2.0 miles past the Pandora Mill to a large unmarked parking area. Park here if you are driving a 2WD vehicle. 4WD is recommended beyond this point.
If you are in a 4WD follow the dirt road, marked as Forest Road #636 on maps, for 2.0-miles up a series of switchbacks to the Bridal Veil Power plant. The road gets rougher and rockier as you climb.
Parking is VERY limited at the top and fills up early in the morning. Be sure not to block the gate. If there is no parking, turn around and go back down the road until you find a safe, wide spot in the road to park out of the flow of traffic and not on private property. A good place to park is at the base of the waterfall and then walk 0.8-miles up the road.
Liberty Bell Trail
• Distance: 2.3 miles • Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet • Difficulty: Strenuous • Time: Approximately 2 – 3 hours
The hike to the Liberty Bell Basin and Mine is steep. But the hike into the high alpine country is well worth it as you pass historic mining structures and abundant wildflowers and wildlife
Begin at the base of Tomboy Road at the top of North Oak Street. Take the first gated switchback on your left. Ascend approximately 0.5 miles, and at the fork, continue straight instead of left towards the Jud Wiebe Trail. Follow the trail to the Liberty Bell Mine.
Lewis Lake and Mine
• Distance: 8.0 - 8.8 miles (round trip) • Elevation: 10,400-ft. - 12,700-ft. • Elevation Gain: 2,300-ft. • Difficulty: moderate-strenuous • Time: 5 -6 Hours roundtrip
The trail begins at the power plant, the second oldest AC generation facility in the country that was built in 1907 to supply the Smuggler’s Union Mine. Duck through the opening in the gate and stay on the seldom used mining road as it swings to the left (south) and enters the basin. In a few minutes pass above the power plant building (on the right).
One of the best hikes in the Basin leads past the largely intact 5-story historic Lewis Mill (12,448-ft.) to Lewis Lake (12,700-ft.), set amid a magnificent alpine amphitheater in the upper basin. Beyond the lake a trail climbs to an unnamed pass with views of Columbine Lake basin and a panorama of peaks around the Telluride area.
Along the way to Lewis Lake you will pass a turnoff for the Blue Lake trail, a great destination for hikers looking for a shorter day. The trail to the lake, nestled in a stark glacial cirque scattered with mining debris, leads past the remains of an old tram, mining cabins and a bunkhouse. Whatever your destination getting to the start of the trail is its own adventure. The 4WD road to the trailhead switchbacks up the headwall of Telluride’s box canyon, providing terrific view of the town, Bridal Veil Falls and the historic power plant at the top of the falls
Sneffels Highline
• Distance: 14 miles round trip • Elevation Gain: 3,520 feet • Difficulty: Challenging • Trail Type: Loop • Time: Full Day
The Sneffels Highline trail transverses every kind of terrain in Telluride hikes: thick Aspen groves, tall Pine Trees, high-alpine tundra and rocky ridgelines running up to 14,000 feet. It is a must-do for avid- hikers, especially when the wildflowers are in full spring bloom.
Trailhead: Start on the Jud Wiebe trail from north Aspen Street and go left at the Mill Creek sign after .5 miles. Look for the Sneffels Highline sign on the right.
Ajax Peak Trail • Distance: 2.5 miles
• Elevation: 10,000-ft. – 12,785-ft. • Elevation Gain: 2,785-ft. • Difficulty: strenuous • Time: 4 – 6 hours
Ajax Peak overlooks the town of Telluride from the far east side of the box canyon. It is a non-technical peak climb summiting at 12.785 feet and ends in panoramic 360-degree views of Bridal Veil Basin, Imogene Pass, Savage Basin, Silver Lake, and beyond.
Directions: From downtown Telluride, drive east approximately 1.5 miles past the Pandora Mill site to the Valley View Parking Area on the right side of the road. You can begin your hike here and walk up the switch backed dirt road (Forest Road #648) or you may also continue to drive up towards the Bridal Veil Power plant. High clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Start at the top of Bridal Veil Falls where the road turns into a one-way (traveling downhill) from Ingram Falls. Climb steeply over stone steps that lead into Bridal Veil Basin. Lookout for mining cables overhead; between the third and fourth cable, you will find the unmarked trail to Ajax heading upwards. Follow the switchbacks that take you to a grassy ridge between Ingram Basin and Savage Basin, and you will catch the well-worn trail that takes you to the summit. Return the same way.
Hope Lake Trail
• Distance: 4.5 - 5.9 miles (round trip) • Elevation: 10,750-ft. - 11,880-ft. • Elevation Gain: 1,130-ft. - 1,695-ft. • Difficulty: moderate • Time: 4 hours round trip
This trail offers a 3.2 mile hike to a high alpine lake with scenic views of Trout Lake and neighboring 13,752 foot San Miguel Peak. A high clearance vehicle is recommended for the last two miles of rough forest road that leads to the trailhead. This is a favorite hike for viewing wildflowers. This is one of the most popular trails in the Telluride area so expect it to be busy on summer weekends with limited parking. High clearance vehicles are recommended. The trail is open from June to October
Directions: From the condo, head south (left) on State Hwy 145 for approx. 8 miles. Turn left onto County Road 63A (signed on highway as "Trout Lake"). Proceed on CR 63L for approx. 1.5 miles, then left onto Forest Road #627. Proceed up this rough, rocky road 2.5 miles to the Hope Lake Trailhead.
Lizard Head
•Distance: 7.6 - 11.7 miles (loop) •Elevation: 10,250-ft. - 12,147-ft. •Elevation Gain: 1,897-ft. - 2,700- ft. •Difficulty: strenuous
The Lizard Head trail traversing Black Face Mountain’s broad, panoramic ridge is not the shortest route to the base of Lizard Head peak but it is certainly the most scenic. From the ridge leading to the top of Black Face the San Miguel Range, including Mount Wilson (14,245-ft.), Gladstone Mountain (13,913-ft.) and Wilson Peak (14,017-ft.), form a dramatic backdrop for Lizard Head’s lone spire soaring 400-ft. above its rocky pedestal.
To the east spectacular views encompass Trout Lake and the peaks surrounding the Lake Hope basin including Sheep Mountain, Pilot Knob, Golden Horn and Vermillion Peak. To the north, Sunshine Mountain rises above picturesque Wilson Meadows. In the distance to the northeast is the jagged profile of the Sneffels range. The trail can either be done as an out-and-back hike or a loop using Cross Mountain and an old Railroad Grade route on the return leg. The loop covers 11.7 miles of diverse terrain with a net elevation gain over 2,700-ft.
Driving directions: Drive south (left) Colorado 145 for 12 miles to Lizard Head Pass. Turn right into the rest area and park. The trailhead is located at the northeast end of the parking area. You can also park in a separate trailhead parking area by driving through the rest area (past the restroom) for approximately 1000-ft., then turn right onto a spur road that ends at the Lizard Head trailhead parking area.
Navajo Lake
• Distance: 9.2 miles (round trip) • Elevation: 9,320-ft. - 11,154-ft. • Elevation Gain: 1,834-ft. • Difficulty: moderate-strenuous • Time: 6 hours roundtrip
There are two access routes to Navajo Lake from the south, the Navajo Lake Trail and the Kilpacker Trail, which meet and share the final 2.4 miles to the lake. The Navajo Lake trail is shorter and the lower portion of the trail enjoys better views.
From the Navajo Lake trailhead follow the trail up the right (east) side of the West Dolores River past the Groundhog trail, which heads left (west) on a footbridge crossing the River. In less than a mile the trail crosses to the west side of the river on a bridge.
The trail climbs above the river on a good trail at a moderate grade through intermittent forest of mixed conifers and wildflower-filled meadows. Views from the meadows include Dolores Peak (13,290-ft.) to the northwest and El Diente (14,159-ft.) to the east. After gaining 870-ft. in a little over 2.2 miles the trail meets the Kilpacker trail (coming in from the east) in a large meadow. The junction is marked with a small sign.
Directions: Drive south (left) from Condo on Colorado 145 for 17.9 miles and turn right onto the Dunton Road (#207). The turnoff is located 5.4 miles south of Lizard Head Pass. The narrow gravel and dirt road ascends the hillside on a switchback and then traverses the northeast side of the Coal Creek drainage, crossing the creek in a little under 4 miles.
Continue on the Dunton Road and turn right (north) at the marked entrance for the Navajo Lake trailhead (7 miles from the intersection with Colorado 145). The turn off is located just beyond a sharp left curve in the road. Drive 0.1 miles to the parking area.
Mountain Bike Riding Telluride has numerous bike trails to appease everyone from beginners to experts. From Mountain Village, there is an intermediate trail called Jurassic that starts behind the Peaks Hotel & Spa. The trail is mostly downhill with a single path through the wooded hill side and a number of switchbacks. The trail ends about half way down the mountain and then you take a short ½ mile ride on a paved road to hook up with the Meadows Trail , which is milder and open than Jurassic. The trail spills you on Hwy 145 just before the bridge that crosses the river. From there, you can take the River Trail , which is relatively flat and generally follows the river back to Telluride. You hook your bike to the Gondola and ride up to Mountain Village where you take the Boulevard Trail back to the house.
For a little extra adventure and exercise, proceed to the Galloping Goose in lieu of the River Trail. Its starts across CO145 and follows the river in the opposite direction. This scenic trail guides users over 20 footbridges, past historical landmarks and through the deep gullies of Uncompahgre National Forest—some of Colorado's most beautiful scenery. Maintained by the U.S. Forest Service, the Galloping Goose is known as the season's first and last skiable trail, consistently receiving more snow than any other Nordic trail in the area. So, if you love to cross-country ski or snowshoe, prime trail time is between the months of October and April. The rest of the year this dirt-surfaced trail is ideal for vigorous hiking and bicycling.
The trail follows the curious but charming Rio Grande Southern Railroad (RGS) line; keep a look out for little historical landmarks along your path. From Durango to Ridgeway the RGS offered mail and freight services to local businesses and passenger service to travelers. This narrow gauge line used the Galloping Goose, which was half automobile and half train, to navigate across the area's steep cliffs and rugged mountains. As you might have guessed the train's name gave birth to the trail's name.
Before starting your journey take note that, due to its gradually increasing elevation, the Galloping Goose is rated as an intermediate experience level trail. If you are looking for a less challenging experience, start at Lawson Hill (near the intersection of CO Hwy. 45 and the 145 Spur into Telluride) and ride toward South Fork Road. According to the U.S. Forest Service, this section of the trail is the most heavily used segment because of its single track, out-and-back route. This portion of the Galloping Goose is also heavily signed so you won't get side tracked as you make your way along the trail gazing at the breathtaking mountain views.
From South Fork Road, head south towards Sunshine Road among the sweet smelling Ponderosa pines and tall oak trees. This area is rich with wildlife such as burrowing owls, skunks and black bears. Keep your eyes peeled for any sight of these animals and if you come across signs of a bear, vacate the area as quickly as possible.
The portion of the Galloping Goose from Sunshine Road to Ophir Loop is the most scenic section of the trail. Heading south, you'll follow the San Miguel River and pass several old railroad ties. Make sure to stop and get a good look at these ties as they are fascinating and reflect the historical significance of the trail. If you brought your camera with you, take time to get photos of the river, as it provides amazing views at dawn and dusk.
For beginners , consider the River Trail that starts at Town Park and runs all the way to Hwy 145. There is also a 3 mi paved bike trail that follows the road out to Telluride to Lawson’s Hill. Bike can be rented at the Boot Doctors, located across from the gondola in Telluride, on an hourly or daily basis. Mountain Village Trials ––– Hiking & Biking BEGINNER TRAILS
BIG BILLIE'S TRAIL » 0.5 MILES Beginning on the south side of Country Club Drive in Mountain Village, this refreshing 0.5-mile trail winds down 200 feet and ends at Big Billie’s Apartments in the Meadows neighborhood.
BOULEVARD TRAIL » 2.5 MILES From Lost Creek Lane near Mountain Village Center, this easy 2.5-mile trail begins on a paved surface and continues to Town Hall Plaza. Once at Town Hall Plaza, the paved trail becomes a natural surface trail and continues west towards Highway 145 and the entrance to the Town of Mountain Village. Watch for signage and pedestrian crossings.
JURASSIC TRAIL » 1 MILES This scenic one-mile trail begins on the north side of Country Club Drive in Mountain Village and to the left of the Boomerang Trailhead, then follows the ridge west and 300 feet down into the Meadows neighborhood.
MEADOWS TRAIL » 1 MILES Starting in the Meadows neighborhood in Mountain Village, just up the road from where Adams Ranch Road crosses Prospect Creek and 0.5 mile west of Big Billie’s Apartments, this one-mile trail drops 200 feet to the Lawson Hill neighborhood and Highway 145.
OVERLOOK TRAIL » 0.2 MILES This 0.2-mile trail starts at Station St. Sophia and offers a bench with scenic overlooks of the Telluride valley below.
INTERMEDIATE TRAILS
BOOMERANG TRAIL TO ALTA LAKES » 2 MILES From Prospect Trail or Basin Trail, this trail follows a historic Forest Service dirt road approximately two miles to scenic Alta Lakes and the historic mining town of Alta. Vehicles may be encountered.
BOOMERANG TRAIL TO VALLEY FLOOR » 1 MILES Beginning on the north side of Country Club Drive in Mountain Village and to the right of the Jurassic Trailhead, this steep one mile trail descends through the Uncompahgre National Forest to the Valley Floor below. Expect a 700-foot elevation change. This trail has a lot of loose “tailings” of rock that makes this trail challenging.
COONSKIN LOOP TRAIL » 1.3 MILE LOOP Beginning and ending at Station St. Sophia and with an elevation change of 170 feet, this dirt ski service road is a short 1.3-mile loop starting from and returning to Station St. Sophia. It crosses over Telluride Trail, Lookout and Milk Run ski trails and serves as bike access for the See Forever Trail.
PROSPECT TRAIL » 10 MILES Ten miles in length and the longest single-track on the ski area, this trail begins at Station St. Sophia and traverses across numerous ski trails under Lifts 4 and 5 and into Prospect Creek. After crossing Prospect Creek, the trail climbs through dense forest to the top of Lift 10. This trail then continues two ways: either along the upper loop through Prospect Basin or a shortcut past the teepee and the top of Lift 10 before the descent begins to Station Village Parking and Town Hall Plaza. For a longer hike or bike, Prospect Trail also connects with the Boomerang Trail which leads to Alta Lakes.
RIDGE TRAIL » 2 MILES For hiking only and beginning at Station St. Sophia, this two-mile trail drops 1,000 feet to Station Mountain Village and Mountain Village Center. With its valley views and peaceful switchbacks throughout the aspen forest, and benches to rest while taking in the surroundings, this trail is a local favorite. Do watch for a fork in the trail about 0.2 miles below the radio tower as the route to the right is more rocky and steep.
SHERIDAN TRAIL » 2 MILES This two-mile trail begins at Station St. Sophia and continues to the right, where the trail forks near the top of Lift 4. It then follows a dirt ski service road to the winding, steep and paved San Joaquin Road, one mile from Mountain Village Boulevard. Vehicles may be encountered.
VILLAGE TRAIL » 3 MILES From Station St. Sophia, this rolling three-mile descent crosses several ski trails with great views to the west while traversing through aspen and spruce-dominated drainages. This trail then ends at point #9, so you will need to proceed 100 yards west to San Joaquin Road and turn right where you will follow San Joaquin Road one mile to Mountain Village Boulevard.
ADVANCED/EXPERT TRAILS
BASIN TRAIL » 6 MILES Beginning at Station St. Sophia, this trail forks with the Sheridan Trail and continues left, past the snowmaking storage ponds and gate, for six miles on a dirt ski service road. There are 2,240 feet of steep climbs and descents past the top of Lift 5, the bottom of Lift 14, past Lift 12 and down through the ski area to connect with Prospect Trail. Vehicles may be encountered.
SEE FOREVER TRAIL » 2.8 MILES or 8.3 MILES The hiking-only portion of this trail starts 0.2 miles south of Station St. Sophia. For bikers, the access point to the See Forever Trail is from Station St. Sophia via the Coonskin Loop Trail. Steep and strenuous, this dirt ski service road climbs along the ridgeline 1,710 feet in 2.8 miles to the Wasatch Connection Trailhead. Vehicles may be encountered. With 360 degree views of surrounding mountain ranges and peaks, this trail is often combined with the Wasatch Connection to the Wasatch Trail to form an all-day, 8.3-mile, 3,510-foot steep descent onto Bear Creek Trail, leading into the Town of Telluride.
TELLURIDE TRAIL » 2.6 MILES Accessing this trail from either the Town of Telluride or off Coonskin Loop Trail in the Town of Mountain Village makes no difference: either way its 2.6-miles of steep, rocky terrain only accessible on foot. Sorry to shout, but NO BIKING ALLOWED as people have been hurt doing so. This trail follows a dirt ski service road from Station St. Sophia 1,800 feet down to the Town of Telluride. Vehicles may be encountered.
WASATCH CONNECTION » 1.4 MILES This steep and rocky 1.4-mile trail connects the See Forever Trail to the Wasatch Trail that leads to the Bear Creek Trail. The Wasatch Connection drops off the back side of Gold Hill. Combine these trails for an arduous, day-long adventure
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CampinCampingggg The Telluride area offers breathtaking campgrounds with hiking, fishing and more nearby. The USDA Forrest Service www.fs.usda.gov is a great space to get more details. Here are a few places we recommend to camp:
Alta Lakes - popular free spot to camp, hike, fish or relax. Located right outside of Telluride and Mountain Village. From the Mountain Village entrance, take a left (south) on Hwy 145. The National Forest road will be on your left about 4 miles. Recommend having a high clearance vehicle. This is primitive camping only.
Matterhorn Campground - perfect for guests traveling by RV. 4 of 28 sites offer RV hookups. Camping, showers, firewood available for a fee. From the Mountain Village entrance, take a left (south) on Hwy 145. The entrance to the campground will be on your left about 6 – 7 miles.
Priest Lake Camping Area - free camping located in between Matterhorn Campground and Trout Lake. Turn left on Forrest Road #628 just before the turn into Matterhorn Campground. Forrest Road #628 will loop around to Trout Lake and Highway 145.
Sunshine Campground - 15 campsites nestled in an aspen forest outside of Telluride. Camping, firewood and nearby showers available for a fee. As you out of Mountain Village, turn left on Hwy 145 and you will find the camp ground about 2 miles down on the right.
Telluride Town Park - the absolute perfect spot for a major festival (if you plan far in advance) or camp on an off weekend steps from downtown Telluride for a fee.
Woods Lake - great campground offering fishing, nearby hiking, horseback riding trails and more. Numerous campsites available for a fee. Head east on Hwy 145 for 7 – 8 miles until you get to the intersection of Fall Creek Road.
San Juan Mountain Huts The San Juan Hut System strives to provide low impact, lightweight backcountry travel opportunities for the adventurous traveler. The winter hut system offers over 60 miles of Nordic ski terrain and unparalleled access to some of the most stunning backcountry skiing in Colorado. In summer, the 215 mile mountain bike routes allows for magnificent hut-to-hut travel. Travel from hut-to-hut on skis, bikes, or on foot and experience the backcountry like you never have before. Huts come fully stocked and can be utilized by reservation only. For more information and to reserve your backcountry adventure, call (970) 626-3033. Escape, explore, unwind, adventure… naturally. www.sanjuanhuts.com Photography Tours "Telluride through the lens of the beholder." Telluride Outside (800-831-6230) leads photography tours year round for the eager beginner as well as the professional looking to visit the more remote areas in our region.
Each tour is customized to the interests of the clients. Some popular destinations include:
• Imogene Pass • Dallas Divide • Trout Lake • Tomboy and Alta ghost towns • Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Guides spend ample time discussing each site and coaching on site to optimize the experience for the photographer. Telluride Outside offers half day or full day tours in the immediate area, half and full day tours at Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and a 3-day photo workshop. These tours are primarily content-focused rather than editing or technical instruction about your particular camera.
Climbing The Telluride region has excellent year-round rock climbing. From high-altitude conglomerate and granite routes to sun- baked sandstone, Telluride has it all, at every angle, type (trad, sport or bouldering), length and difficulty to satisfy the first timer or seasoned hard-man (or hard-woman). Not interested in rock climbing? Try a hike through the San Juan Mountains during your next Telluride vacation.
The Via Ferrata - which is Italian for “iron road” – offers the ability for participants to experience the thrill of travelling through the mountains in an exposed setting with the protection of cables and steel/iron rungs. Though quite popular throughout the European Alps, the sport is just starting to gain notice here in America. Originally developed during the first World War to aid the progress of troops through the mountains, Via Ferrata are now widely recognized as inspired tourist attractions on mountain features that would otherwise be inaccessible. Open: May – October
Recommend guided tours: https://mtnguide.net/telluride-via-ferrata/
Pricing is based on trainer to participant ratio (4:1 max): 1:1 - $349; 2:1 - $249/pp; 3:1 - $199/pp; 4:1 - #179/pp
Ophir Wall - Though not directly in Telluride, the Ophir Wall is pretty close. Hosting a number of single and multipitch slabs (often with fixed pro) and a grade range of 5.6-5.10, the Ophir Wall is a great place to visit again and again. For those looking to improve their aid climbing game (possibly in preparation for Yosemite's El Cap) the Ophir Wall offers a few aid routes.
The East Buttress - This is generally the descent route for those topping out the Ophir Wall. However, the East Buttress hosts a few one to two pitch routes from 5.3-5.10. Cracked Canyon - Also located near the Ophir Wall. Cracked Canyon contains nearly 100 routes (so you can come back again, and again and again). Most routes here are trad or a mix of trad and bolts in the 5.7-5.10 range, however 5.3s and 5.13s are here as well (Note: Cracked Canyon is a lycra-free zone).
Ames Wall - Located just behind town of Ames, is known for its wildly striated stone (it's a mix of granite, sandstone and shale). Note: This one to two-pitch area is spooky.
Telluride Cliffs - This crag is located just above the Telluride School and is easily accessible from Aspen Street. These sandstone routes are short (20-55 feet) and can be easily top roped.
Bilk Creek: The Bilk Creek Wall can be found by driving west out of Telluride towards the San Miguel County Sherriff’s office. There are some great climbs on this wall for anyone from absolute beginners, to climbers looking to work on their 5.9 -5.10 routes. You can set up top rope here, something that is hard to find in Telluride. Located on a small dirt road alongside the creek, this is a great spot to spend the day.