The best walks and hikes in Archuleta County

Hike the moderate 4.8-mile Catamount, Park Ave, and Newt Jack Road Loop through pine forests and meadows in San Juan National Forest.

Hike the moderate Quartz Lake Trail, a 4.4-mile route with 2162 feet of elevation gain, leading to the beautiful Quartz Lake.

Hike the moderate 9.7-mile Turkey Springs, Gopher, Newt Jack Loop in San Juan National Forest, featuring forest views and Perino Reservoir.

Hike the moderate 7.1-mile Newt Jack, Catamount, Lower Rim, Upper Rim Loop in San Juan National Forest, featuring forest views and wildlife.

Discover the Sheep Creek Trail, an easy hiking route that takes you through the diverse landscapes of the San Juan National Forest. This trail offers scenic views of the majestic San Juan Mountains, especially from the Piedra River Trail section. You will cover 2.9 miles (4.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 570 feet (174 metres). The route is estimated to take about 1 hour and 26 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick outdoor escape. Your journey culminates at the inviting Piedra River Hot Springs, where you can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

The Sheep Creek Trail is located within the San Juan National Forest, specifically in Archuleta County, Colorado. You will generally find parking available directly at the trailhead, making access straightforward. Before you head out, always remember to check local conditions. This includes looking into current weather forecasts and any potential seasonal access changes that might affect your visit.

This route stands out as an accessible way to experience the rich natural environment of the San Juan National Forest. It provides a refreshing escape into nature, allowing you to immerse yourself in the varied ecosystems of the area. The trail's destination, the Piedra River Hot Springs, offers a unique opportunity to unwind amidst the scenic beauty of the region.

Hike the moderate 7.3-mile Turkey Springs and Catamount Trail Loop in San Juan National Forest, enjoying diverse terrain and wildlife.

Embark on an easy hike along the Great House Pueblo Trail, a short route spanning 0.6 miles (0.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 94 feet (29 metres). You can expect to complete this scenic path in about 16 minutes, making it perfect for a quick exploration. As you walk, you will enjoy spectacular views, including close-up perspectives of the iconic Chimney Rock and Companion Rock pinnacles, alongside ancient Puebloan structures like a pithouse and a guard house.

Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight, as the Chimney Rock National Monument, where the trail is located, is open seasonally, typically from mid-May to mid-October. Access to the trail is often part of a guided tour, so it is recommended to make reservations in advance. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the terrain, bring enough water, and use sun protection, as there is minimal shade along the route.

This trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient history, leading you to the Great House village complex itself. From the mesa ridge, you can take in 360-degree panoramic views of the ponderosa pine-covered mountains of southern Colorado and the vast Piedra River Valley. Keep an eye out for peregrine falcons, which are often sighted soaring near Companion Rock, adding to the rich experience of this historic site.

Hike the moderate 4.6-mile Turkey Springs Loop Trail in San Juan National Forest, featuring diverse forests, meadows, and canyon views.

Hike the easy 1.8-mile San Juan Riverwalk and Pagosa Wetlands Loop, offering scenic riverside views, hot springs, and diverse wildlife.