Explore Hiking & Nature Trails in Telluride this Summer
There is enough terrain in Telluride region that you could hike something different every weekend. The San Juan Mountain are home to the highest concentration of 14,000 ft peaks in the state of Colorado. There is everything from technical mountain terrain, day hike and overnight backpacking trips right from your doorstep in Telluride. Be on the lookout for abundant wildlife such as elk, beavers, raccoons, eagles and deer.Bear Creek Falls:
This trail is a great, gradually climbing hike up the beautiful Bear Creek Falls. This hiking trail is perfect for families. The trailhead is located at the far south end of Pine Street. The paved road ends and the trail begins. This out and back route meanders through aspens, then opens to gain views of Ballard and other surrounding peaks. This trail is popular and well-rounded for many different fitness levels, and has plenty of rewarding views. You can catch views of Bear Creek Falls from a huge, very prominent boulder found not far from the trail.
From the viewpoint, you can continue on to get and up close and personal look at the falls. The trail does become narrow and more single-track upon the approach towards the big boulder. Round trip, it could take anywhere between 1-2 hours. Be mindful that this trail is open to cyclists.
Prospect Trail:
Ten miles in length and the longest single-track on the ski area, this trail begins at San Sophia Station 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 Market Plaza. For a longer hike or bike, Prospect Trail also connects with the Boomerang Trail which leads to Alta Lakes.
For more hikes available in the Telluride/Mountain Village Area, please click here.