The best running trails around Silverton

The Kendall Mountain Road offers a truly epic high-altitude jogging experience, climbing through rugged terrain to deliver unparalleled views of Silverton and the vast San Juan Mountains. As you ascend this historic mining road, the landscape transforms from gravel and rock to exposed alpine tundra and scree, with fascinating glimpses of old mine remnants along the way. It's a demanding route, but the reward is a profound sense of accomplishment and breathtaking panoramas from elevations up to 13,000 feet.

Planning your visit requires careful consideration, as this difficult 9.3-mile (15.0 km) route with 2839 feet (865 metres) of elevation gain is best tackled in the summer and fall. The high altitude means thinner air, making the estimated 2 hours and 23 minutes duration feel even more strenuous. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, including potential thunderstorms, and ensure you have adequate water and gear for an exposed mountain environment.

This trail is not just a jogging route; it's also a popular and challenging path for off-road enthusiasts and the site of the annual Kendall Mountain Run, a renowned mountain race. Its historical significance as a mining road, combined with the dramatic high-mountain scenery and the transition above the treeline, makes it a standout option for experienced joggers seeking a memorable and physically demanding adventure in the Colorado Rockies.

If you're looking for a moderate jogging route that offers a quick escape into the mountains, the Rainbow Trail is a solid choice. This 3.9-mile (6.3 km) segment, with its 470 feet (143 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 43 minutes to complete, winding through a mix of pine and aspen forests and open green meadows. You'll encounter varied terrain, from smooth stretches to rocky, rooted sections, all while enjoying expansive views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the chance to spot wildflowers.

Planning your visit to this Rainbow Trail jogging location means preparing for an average elevation of 9,000 feet, so altitude can be a factor. While specific parking information for this particular trailhead isn't detailed, arriving early is generally a good strategy for popular trail access points. The trail is shared with various users, including hikers and mountain bikers, so maintain awareness and courtesy on the path.

The Rainbow Trail is a historic route, dating back to 1912, originally built for grazing access and firefighting, making it one of the country's oldest long-distance trails. This segment offers a glimpse into its diverse character, connecting you to the broader 100-mile system that links with the Continental Divide and Colorado Trails. It's a great way to experience the high-alpine environment and witness landscape rejuvenation in areas affected by past fires.

The Colorado Trail: Little Molas Lake offers a fantastic high-alpine jogging experience, winding through expansive meadows and past the picturesque Little Molas Lake itself. You'll be treated to panoramic views of the Grenadier Range and West Needle Mountains, with wildflowers often blooming in July, creating a vibrant backdrop to your run. The terrain is varied, providing both accessible sections and more challenging stretches as you navigate the mountainous landscape.

This moderate 4.8-mile (7.6 km) route, with 514 feet (157 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in approximately 58 minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick, invigorating outing. The trailhead is easily reached via an unpaved road off Highway 550, generally suitable for most cars in good weather. Remember to account for the high-altitude conditions and plan your visit during the warmer months for the best experience.

What makes this segment particularly notable is its role as an excellent jumping-off point for the iconic Colorado Trail, offering a true taste of the high-alpine environment. Beyond jogging, the area is a recreational hub popular for mountain biking, fishing, and snowshoeing in winter, highlighting its versatility and natural beauty within the San Juan Mountains.

The Boulder Gulch Trail to Velocity Basin offers a truly wild alpine jogging experience near Silverton, Colorado. You'll start on a dirt road, then climb steadily through Boulder Gulch on a smooth singletrack before the terrain turns rugged and technical, leading to high alpine tundra. The highlight is undoubtedly Velocity Basin, featuring a beautiful alpine lake tucked beneath towering Storm Peak, with panoramic views from the pass between Storm Peak and Tower Mountain.

This difficult 15.0-mile (24.2 km) route involves a substantial 5012 feet (1527 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 2 minutes to complete. It's best tackled from late June to early September for clear trails and vibrant wildflowers, but be prepared for potential snow patches at higher elevations even then. Given the remoteness and exposure to lightning, an early start is highly recommended, and always carry ample water.

This trail is a prime example of the San Juan Mountains' challenging beauty, offering a demanding workout in a spectacular setting. The varied terrain, from smooth singletrack to rocky alpine sections, ensures a dynamic run. It's a fantastic option for experienced trail runners looking for a significant high-altitude adventure away from more crowded routes.