Hike-Backpack-Trail Run
Pick your trail based on the ecosystem...
Ponderosa Pine
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7,000 - 8,500 feet
Rolling trails through stately pines and aspen-lined meadows
Ponderosa Pine (7,000-8,500 feet)
Turkey Springs
5 to 30-mile Loops
Rolling singletrack winds through ponderosa pine and open meadows
Trails that wind through the ponderosa pine are the most accessible because they are close to town and generally dry out by the end of April. A healthy ponderosa pine forest is sunny and with widely spaced trees intermixed by oakbrush, chokecherry, and other shrubs. Aspen stands are present near shallow springs or line the edges wetland meadows.
Spruce-Fir (9,000-12,000 feet)
Fourmile Falls
6 miles, 1080-foot gain
The dramatic waterfall the plunges over a huge volcanic cliff band into a beautiful river valley
Trails that ascend through the spruce-fir forest generally don't dry out until mid-June depending upon the previous winter. Most of these forests have endured extensive spruce beetle damage and each year it takes a while to clear the resulting deadfall. Despite the beetle damage, the lakes and rivers are still worth the visit and fortunately, young trees are regenerating some green. Incredible aspen stands are located in disturbed areas such as burn scars and landslides.
Alpine (12,000-14,000 feet)
Quartz Lake
9.2 miles, 2,200-foot gain
Views abound as you crest a 12,080-foot saddle and descend the lush tundra to the pristine lake.
Surrounded by lush meadows and wildflower-filled fields, alpine lakes are the gems of the San Juans. Treeline is generally around 12,000 feet in our region. Snow can last into August depending upon the previous winter. Steep slopes and thin air are unavoidable, but the experience will be well worth the effort. Beware of summer monsoon thunderstorms that usually begin in July and ebb and flow through September.