Quick Info
Terrain: San Juan National Forest and Weminuche Wilderness. Highlights: Waterfalls, alpine lakes, mountain peaks. Season: June-October for high trails; lower trails year-round. Difficulty: Options from easy walks to challenging backcountry.
Pagosa Springs sits on the edge of vast public lands—the San Juan National Forest and Weminuche Wilderness provide endless hiking opportunities. The terrain ranges from gentle riverside walks to challenging climbs into alpine country. Waterfalls are a regional specialty, with several spectacular cascades accessible by trail.
The area sees fewer hikers than popular Front Range trails. Even popular destinations often feel uncrowded, especially midweek.
Waterfall Hikes
Piedra Falls
Distance: 1 mile round trip. Difficulty: Easy.
Short walk to a dramatic waterfall on the Piedra River. The cascade drops over 100 feet through a rocky gorge. One of the most accessible waterfalls in Southwest Colorado. Family-friendly.
Fourmile Falls
Distance: 3 miles round trip. Difficulty: Moderate.
Trail follows Fourmile Creek to a beautiful waterfall. Steady elevation gain through forest. Best in early summer when snowmelt increases flow.
Treasure Falls
Distance: 0.5 miles round trip. Difficulty: Easy.
Quick hike to viewpoint of 100+ foot waterfall. Located on Wolf Creek Pass—combine with a ski day or pass through. Parking can be limited.
Alpine Hikes
Opal Lake
Distance: 6 miles round trip. Difficulty: Moderate.
Hike to a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by peaks. The trail climbs through forest into high meadows. Excellent wildflowers in July.
Williams Creek Trail
Distance: Variable. Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous.
Access route into the Weminuche Wilderness. Can be done as out-and-back of various lengths or as gateway to extended backcountry trips.
Continental Divide Trail
The CDT passes through the Pagosa area. Day hikes access portions of this famous long trail. Wolf Creek Pass provides a high-elevation trailhead.
Easy Walks
Riverwalk
Downtown path along the San Juan River. Flat, paved, family-friendly. Views of hot springs and mountain scenery.
Reservoir Hill
Short trails on the hill above downtown with viewpoints over Pagosa Springs. Good for sunrise or sunset walks.
Turkey Springs Trail
Network of easy trails close to town. Popular for walking, running, and mountain biking.
Tips
High trails open late. Snow lingers at altitude into June or later. Check conditions for alpine destinations.
Afternoon storms are real. Start early for high-elevation hikes. Plan to be descending by early afternoon in summer.
Waterfall hikes are best in spring/early summer. Peak flow occurs during snowmelt. Late summer waterfalls may be reduced.
Bears live here. Bear-aware practices apply. Make noise, store food properly, know what to do in an encounter.
Finish with hot springs. Post-hike soaking is the Pagosa specialty. The springs are ideal for tired muscles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best waterfall hike?
Piedra Falls offers the best payoff for minimal effort. Fourmile Falls is more of a hike with similar reward.
Are there 14ers near Pagosa?
Not immediately. The nearest 14ers are in the Weminuche or San Juan ranges, requiring significant approach. Day-hiking 14ers from Pagosa is challenging.
When do trails open?
Lower trails are accessible year-round. High alpine trails typically open June-July depending on snowpack. Some remain accessible into October.
Are trails crowded?
Generally no. Even popular trails see less traffic than Front Range destinations. You'll often have trails to yourself, especially midweek.
Where do I get trail information?
Pagosa Ranger District office has maps and current conditions. Local outdoor shops also provide guidance.