The best family-friendly hikes and walks in San Miguel County

The Waterfall Creek Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through the scenic landscapes near Ophir, Colorado. While specific visual landmarks are not widely documented for this particular route, you can anticipate a pleasant journey through the natural environment of San Miguel County. The trail's gentle nature makes it an inviting option for a relaxing stroll, allowing you to immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of the region.

Planning your visit to the Waterfall Creek Trail is straightforward, as it's easily accessible from Ophir. This 2.7-mile (4.3 km) route, with its modest 483 feet (147 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 19 minutes. It's a great choice for a quick escape, and its easy difficulty means it's suitable for most hikers, including families looking for a short adventure.

This trail provides a low-key alternative to more strenuous options in the area, perfect for those seeking a tranquil experience without significant physical demands. Its less popular status means you're likely to find a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for wildlife spotting or simply enjoying the solitude of nature. Consider it for a refreshing break during your time in the Colorado mountains.

Last Dollar Road offers a truly immersive hiking experience through the heart of the San Juan Mountains, showcasing panoramic views of peaks like the Sneffels Range and Wilson Peak. As you traverse this historic route, you'll pass through golden aspen groves that feel like natural cathedrals, especially in autumn, and expansive ranchlands. The unpaved road provides a moderately challenging surface, with some sections becoming more demanding, making it a rewarding journey for those who appreciate rugged beauty.

Planning your visit requires attention to the seasons; the road is typically accessible from May to November, closing during winter months due to snow. While it's a point-to-point hike between Ridgway and Telluride, be aware that the terrain is an unpaved, bumpy dirt road, which can become slick with clay after rain. A high-clearance 4x4 is often recommended for vehicles, so prepare for varied conditions underfoot if you're hiking.

This difficult 13.3-mile (21.4 km) hike involves a significant 2973 feet (906 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 6 hours and 32 minutes to complete. Beyond its natural beauty, Last Dollar Road holds historical significance as a former mining supply route and has even served as a filming location for movies like "True Grit." Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer and elk, and you might even spot historic Basque sheep herder carvings in the aspen trees.

The San Miguel River trail offers a delightful riverside journey through Telluride, winding past lush forests of pine and spruce with the impressive Telluride Peak often dominating the background. This moderate hiking route covers 4.8 miles (7.8 km) with a minimal 224 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect two-hour-and-four-minute escape for those seeking picturesque scenery without a strenuous climb. You'll find yourself immersed in nature, with the constant presence of the San Miguel River alongside the path, and opportunities to spot wildflowers and local wildlife.

Planning your visit to this popular hiking trail is straightforward, as it's easily accessible from various points within Telluride and serves as a key connector to other trails and attractions like the free Telluride Gondola. The trail is enjoyable year-round, adapting beautifully to each season, and is particularly welcoming to families and dog owners. While there's no specific permit required, it's always wise to check local conditions, especially if you plan on river activities during the spring snowmelt.

What makes the San Miguel River trail truly stand out is its role as a gentle introduction to Telluride's mountain environment, ideal for acclimating to the altitude. It links seamlessly with other routes like the Idarado Legacy Trail, offering extended exploration towards landmarks such as Bridal Veil Falls. This trail isn't just a path; it's a vital artery for the town, providing a serene escape and a convenient way to navigate Telluride's natural beauty.

The Wilson Meadows Trail offers a delightful journey through the Lizard Head Wilderness, showcasing the diverse beauty of southwest Colorado. You'll wander through grassy slopes, peaceful pine and aspen forests, and eventually emerge into expansive meadows that come alive with wildflowers in the spring. The trail provides exceptional views of the iconic Lizard Head Peak and the broader San Juan Mountains, making it a visually rich experience.

This easy hiking route covers 3.2 miles (5.1 km) with 774 feet (236 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 37 minutes. Access is primarily from Lizard Head Pass. For the best experience, consider visiting in the spring to witness the vibrant wildflower displays, or head out in the early morning for prime wildlife spotting opportunities. Parking at the trailhead can fill up, so an early start is often recommended.

What makes this trail truly stand out are its panoramic views of Lizard Head Peak and the pristine environment of the Lizard Head Wilderness. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a relatively short, family-friendly hike with a high payoff in terms of scenery and natural beauty. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, and pikas, especially in the quieter parts of the meadows.