San Juan Mountains
Colorado's wildest and most geologically dramatic range — jagged peaks, alpine basins, historic mining roads turned 4WD trails, and the Million Dollar Highway.
Trails
2
Best Season
June through September; wildflower peak is typically mid-July to early August
How to Get There
Reach gateway towns by car from Durango (regional airport) or via scenic highways US-550 (Million Dollar Highway) and US-160. Many trailheads require high-clearance vehicles.
Permit Information
Weminuche Wilderness and other designated wilderness areas have self-issue permits at trailheads. Some popular basins have parking limits on peak weekends.
The San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado contain some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in the state. The range features jagged volcanic peaks, high alpine basins, wildflower-filled meadows, and a complex network of jeep roads from the mining era. The main gateway towns are Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride, and Lake City. The Colorado Trail crosses the San Juans on its western leg, and the Weminuche Wilderness — the largest wilderness area in Colorado — protects the heart of the range. Yankee Boy Basin, Ice Lakes Basin, and the Blue Lakes trails are among the most popular hiking destinations.
The two to know
★ 01Blue Lakes Trail
A spectacular San Juan hike climbing through three alpine lake basins toward the base of Mount Sneffels, with wildflowers, waterfalls, and 360-degree peaks.
★ 02Ice Lakes Basin Trail
The crown jewel of San Juan day hikes, with turquoise alpine lakes and the region's most spectacular wildflower displays.
Full index
- ★Blue Lakes Trail11.3 km—→
- ★Ice Lakes Basin Trail12.9 km—→