The best walks and hikes in Rio Grande County
5.0
(3)
33
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking in Rio Grande County, Colorado, offers diverse landscapes within the Rio Grande National Forest, characterized by high-altitude mountains, alpine lakes, and extensive evergreen forests. The region encompasses parts of the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges, providing varied terrain from open meadows to challenging ascents. The Rio Grande River and its tributaries wind through the landscape, creating riverside trails and supporting diverse wildlife. Significant sections of the Continental Divide Trail also traverse the county, offering expansive views.
…Last updated: May 12, 2026
1
hikers
4.48km
01:25
280m
40m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Alberta Peak via Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, covering 2.8 miles (4.5 km) with an elevation gain of 932 feet (284 metres).…
1
hikers
11.0km
03:01
170m
170m
Hike the 6.9-mile Stone Quarry Loop via Jer’s Lair and Monster Slayer for rugged high desert scenery and San Luis Valley views.
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3.94km
01:09
50m
210m
Embark on an easy hike along the Lobo Overlook and Continental Divide Trail, a 2.5-mile (3.9 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 8 minutes to complete. You'll gain…
2.83km
00:59
240m
0m
Hike the 1.8-mile Alder Bench Trail in South Fork, Colorado, an easy route with 797 feet of gain and challenging, rocky terrain.
4.73km
01:21
100m
140m
Hike to the unique La Garita Arch, an easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) trail with panoramic views of the San Luis Valley and Sangre de Cristo Mountain
1
hikers
12.0km
04:10
660m
660m
Hike the 7.4-mile Treasure Creek Trail to Summit Peak, a moderate route in the South San Juan Wilderness with 2156 feet of elevation gain.
5.0
(3)
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
13.7km
04:07
450m
450m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
La Garita (or La Ventana) Natural Arch is different from many of the natural rock arches scattered around Colorado. Rather than being formed from uplifted sandstone as most arches are, the Ventana Arch formed within a magma intrusion called a volcanic dike. Lava from the Summer Coon volcanic complex intruded into cracks in the surrounding alluvial and volcanic deposits about 30 million years ago. Parts of the magma cooled at different rates and separated from the rest of the wall, and when the surrounding deposits eroded away, the inner part of the arch collapsed, leaving a hole in the dike. The end result was a 40-foot-tall, 30-foot-wide arch. From the end of La Ventana Road, a steep scramble leads to the arch, rewarded with views across the San Luis Valley to the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the Great Sand Dunes National Park. The arch itself is difficult to see from any direction except directly in front of or behind it, quite clearly from the parking at the end of La Ventana Road. If you want to scramble up to the rock wall, bikes can be left at the end of the road, ideally locked in an elevated position, and can be seen when looking back while hiking up. The arch is a sacred site for the Jicarilla Apache and Ute tribes and is still used for ceremonies. The arch is about 11 miles northwest of Del Norte, Colorado, on Forest Service Road A23, a.k.a. La Ventana Road. The road is rough rocky gravel, but doable on most bikes. Signs in the area point to the arch. When hiking to the arch, wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Caution is warranted when climbing to the arch and when descending. Loose rock requires caution and stable footing. To get to the Arch from Monte Vista – head north out of Monte Vista on Highway 285 for 18 miles to County Road G. Turn left and go west to the “Y” just past the La Garita Store. Take the dirt road south and follow the signs to the Natural Arch.
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At Wolf Creek Pass, the Continental Divide Trail crosses Highway 160. It is a good spot to get on or off the trail or for hitching into South Fork (to the north) or Pagosa Springs (to the south). Be careful when crossing the highway as it is quite busy.
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The Big Meadows Reservoir is a great spot for recreational activities such as hiking and fishing. There is a large parking lot, a pit toilet, a campground at the east shore and a hiking trail to circle around the lake. If you want to extend your adventure, you can take the Archuleta Trail to get into the mountains.
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Starting at Big Meadows Reservoir, the Archuleta Trail is roughly 6.5 miles long to where it connects with the Continental Divide Trail and to the beautiful Archuleta Lake. It will take you along creeks, through forest, open meadows and through Aspen forests.
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At this sign you can extend your hike around Big Meadows Reservoir into the Weminuche Wilderness by following the Archuleta Trail that take you to Archuleta Lake. There is a trail register that you should use for your protection in case you get lost.
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The Archuleta Trailhead is located at the south shore of Big Meadows Reservoir. There is a large parking lot and a pit toilet. You can walk around the lake combining a section of the Archuleta Lake with the Big Meadows Loop Trail. The Archuleta Trail leads up to Archuleta Lake in the Weminuche Wilderness and connects with the Continental Divide Trail.
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Great hike. The southeast corner of the loop has many fallen trees that have not been cleared out for several years now. Just makes for an adventure going up, over, under, and through the woods.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Rio Grande County?
Rio Grande County offers a wide variety of hiking experiences. Our guide features 8 curated hiking routes, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks. The region, encompassing parts of the Rio Grande National Forest, boasts over 300 miles of trails in total, catering to all skill levels.
What is the best time of year to hike in Rio Grande County?
The prime hiking season in Rio Grande County is typically from late spring through early fall. Summer offers pleasant temperatures for exploring high-altitude trails, though some high-country destinations may hold snow well into summer. Fall brings stunning foliage, while spring can be beautiful but may still have muddy or snowy sections at higher elevations. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Are there easy hikes suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, Rio Grande County has several easy hikes perfect for families and those new to hiking. For example, the Alberta Peak via Continental Divide National Scenic Trail offers an accessible experience. Another great option is the Lobo Overlook and Continental Divide Trail, which provides scenic views without significant elevation gain. The Rio Grande Nature Trail, though not in our guide, is also known as an easy, flat 1.8-mile hike ideal for wildlife observation.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls in Rio Grande County?
While our current guide doesn't feature routes directly to waterfalls, Rio Grande County is home to several beautiful cascades. Notable waterfalls include Cascade Falls in Big Meadows State Recreation Area, South Clear Creek Falls, and Treasure Falls. North Clear Creek Falls, located west of Creede along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, is also a highly photographed natural wonder in the broader region.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails in Rio Grande County, especially those within the Rio Grande National Forest and on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, are dog-friendly. However, regulations can vary, so it's always best to check specific trail rules before you go. Always keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all waste.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, if you prefer loop trails, Rio Grande County offers some excellent options. Consider the Stone Quarry Loop via Jer’s Lair and Monster Slayer, a moderate 11 km route. Another great choice is the Big Meadows Reservoir – Archuleta Trail loop from Big Meadows Reservoir, which is an easy 4.2 km walk around the reservoir.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking?
Rio Grande County's diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of wildlife. Hikers often spot waterfowl, songbirds, and bald eagles, especially near the Rio Grande River. Larger mammals like elk, mule deer, and coyotes are also common. Keep an eye out for porcupines and other smaller creatures. Early mornings and late evenings are often the best times for wildlife viewing.
What are some interesting landmarks or points of interest to explore near the trails?
Beyond the trails, Rio Grande County offers several intriguing landmarks. You can explore the historic town of Del Norte, downtown, or learn about the region's mining history at the Summitville Gold Mine. For stunning mountain vistas, consider visiting Indiana Pass, which offers breathtaking views from its summit.
Are there challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Absolutely. For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, Rio Grande County provides several moderate to difficult trails. The Treasure Creek Trail to Summit Peak is a challenging 12 km route with significant elevation gain. Another excellent option is the Rock Lake loop from Wolf Creek Pass, a moderate 13.7 km hike that rewards with beautiful scenery.
What is the terrain like on hikes in Rio Grande County?
The terrain in Rio Grande County is incredibly diverse. You'll find everything from open parks and meadows to challenging mountain ascents within the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo ranges. Trails often traverse extensive evergreen forests, lead to pristine alpine lakes, and follow the Rio Grande River through canyons and valleys. Sections of the Continental Divide Trail also offer high-altitude, rugged experiences.
Where can I find parking for trailheads in Rio Grande County?
Most established trailheads in Rio Grande County, particularly those within the Rio Grande National Forest and popular recreation areas, offer designated parking facilities. These are typically well-marked. For specific routes, details about parking availability are often included in the route descriptions on komoot. Always arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
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