The best walks and hikes in Montrose County

Yes, many trails in the Uncompahgree National Forest and on BLM land, such as the popular Buzzard Gulch trail system, are great for hiking with dogs. However, please be aware that dogs are not permitted on most trails within Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, including the inner canyon, Rim Rock Trail, and Oak Flat Loop. They are generally allowed on-leash on roads, in campgrounds, and at overlooks.

Montrose County offers several great options for families. For an accessible and scenic walk, consider the Dead Horse Loop on the North Rim of the Black Canyon. It's a relatively flat loop trail that provides beautiful views without strenuous climbs, making it suitable for hikers of all ages.

For a truly strenuous challenge, the inner canyon routes in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison are unmatched. These are not maintained trails but steep, un-marked paths that require scrambling and route-finding skills. The Gunnison Route is one such descent to the river, demanding excellent fitness and experience. A wilderness permit is required for all inner canyon trips.

The trails in this region are highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic canyon views, the well-maintained paths along the rims, and the quiet solitude found on the Uncompahgre Plateau.

While the region is more known for its canyons and plateaus, you can find waterfalls, especially during the spring snowmelt. The Uncompahgre Plateau has several hidden falls accessible via its network of trails. Exploring areas like the Lower Spring Creek Canyon Trail after rainfall or in the spring can be rewarding.

The prime hiking season is from late spring to fall (May through October). Summer offers warm, sunny days perfect for exploring the high-elevation Uncompahgre Plateau. Fall brings beautiful golden aspen colors. The South Rim of the Black Canyon is open year-round, offering opportunities for snowshoeing in winter, but the North Rim and its access road are typically closed from late fall to mid-spring.

Most major hiking areas have designated trailheads. For trails in the Black Canyon, parking is available near the visitor centers and at various overlooks along the rim drives. For trails on the Uncompahgre Plateau, the Buzzard Gulch Trails and Electric Hills Trailhead are popular starting points with parking areas just a short drive from Montrose.

Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. The Uplands Trail & Rim Rock Nature Trail Loop on the South Rim of the Black Canyon is a great option that combines pleasant woodland walking with stunning canyon vistas. Many trails in the Buzzard Gulch system can also be combined to create loops of varying lengths.

There are nearly 30 curated hiking routes in Montrose County, offering a wide range of experiences. You'll find everything from 11 easy, accessible paths perfect for a quick outing to 7 difficult routes that will challenge even experienced hikers.

Yes, but it is extremely demanding. There are no maintained or marked trails into the inner canyon. Routes like the Warner Route are very steep, rugged, and require scrambling. A free wilderness use permit is mandatory for any travel into the canyon and can be obtained on the day of your hike. For more details on permits and safety, check the official National Park Service website.

Several highly-regarded hiking areas are located very close to town. The Buzzard Gulch Trails are a local favorite, offering an extensive network of paths for hiking and biking. The Lower Spring Creek Canyon Trail is another great option that connects to the Buzzard Gulch system. For a more developed path, the West Main Trail Head provides access to the Uncompahgre Riverway Trail right in Montrose.