Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area is a high-alpine region situated within the San Juan National Forest of western Colorado. This area is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including expansive alpine meadows, prominent lakes like Molas Lake and Little Molas Lake, and panoramic vistas of the San Juan Mountains. The terrain, marked by significant elevation and varied natural features, provides a setting for several sports like hiking, jogging, and mountain biking. Its location offers accessible high-country trail access, making it…
32
Routes
5
(6)
Average rating
194
People visited

13
hikers
33.0km
11:48
1,000m
950m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

11
hikers
15.5km
06:20
1,020m
570m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

12
hikers
6.67km
02:28
240m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

2
hikers
5.01km
03:07
680m
10m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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23
runners
15.0km
02:23
870m
870m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.

8
runners
10.4km
01:22
270m
270m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
runners
6.30km
00:43
140m
140m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

2
runners
7.65km
00:59
160m
160m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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11
riders
29.8km
03:10
770m
770m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
5
riders
64.5km
07:06
2,030m
2,030m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
riders
52.1km
05:21
1,620m
1,620m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

5
riders
18.1km
02:06
700m
700m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, jogging, and mountain biking. The region provides diverse routes suitable for various fitness levels. Other activities like camping, backpacking, fishing, and non-motorized boating are also available.
Popular hiking routes include the Colorado Trail from Molas Pass to the Animas River, an 8-mile (12.9 km) moderate route. The Crater Lake Trail is an 11.1-mile (17.9 km) difficult path, and the Molas Trail is a 4-mile (6.4 km) route providing access to the Weminuche Wilderness. More details are available in the Hiking in Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area guide.
Yes, the area features a network of mountain biking trails. Routes like the Colorado Trail: Twin Sisters offer an 18.5-mile (29.8 km) moderate ride with alpine views. The Molas Trail also provides a significant descent to the Animas River. Consult the MTB Trails in Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area guide for more information.
Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area is suitable for trail running. Routes such as the Kendall Peak Road run and the Twin Sisters Trail run offer varying distances and difficulty levels. Further details can be found in the Running Trails in Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area guide.
The area is characterized by high-alpine terrain and panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains. Key features include expansive alpine meadows, Molas Lake and Little Molas Lake, and the Animas River. The region also displays historic mining traces and views of the Grenadiers and Needles.
Yes, the Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area offers trails for all skill levels. Options range from short walks with minimal elevation gain to strenuous multi-hour treks. This includes easy loops and challenging mountain ascents.
Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area is located at an elevation of 10,910 feet (3,325 meters). This high-altitude setting provides accessible high-country trail access and spectacular overlooks.
Little Molas Lake serves as a trailhead for various routes, including a segment of the Colorado Trail. Specific parking information for other trailheads can typically be found through the managing agencies, the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service.
The Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area has received an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars from more than 200 visitors on komoot. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users who have explored the region's routes.
Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area is considered a 'window into the greater backcountry of Colorado.' It is a significant segment of the Colorado Trail and is located on U.S. Highway 550, part of the scenic San Juan Skyway. The area is also known as the last mountain pass in the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic race.
Yes, camping is available in the Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area. Dispersed camping is possible, particularly near water sources. Little Molas Lake also offers designated campsites.
Molas Pass Wsa Wilderness Study Area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service, specifically the San Juan National Forest. Information can be found through their official websites or by contacting the San Juan National Forest directly.

