Easy hikes and walks in Montrose County
4.7
(40)
694
hikers
32
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Montrose County offer access to diverse landscapes, including deep canyons, expansive plateaus, and mountain backdrops. The region is characterized by the dramatic Black Canyon of the Gunnison, the vast Uncompahgre Plateau, and the scenic Gunnison River. This area provides a network of trails suitable for various abilities, with much of the surrounding land being public.
Best easy hiking trails in Montrose County
- The most popular easy hiking route is Exclamation Point, a 1.5 miles (2.4 km) trail that takes about 45 minutes to complete. This trail offers views of the canyon landscape.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Uncompahgre Riverway Trail, an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) path. This route follows the Uncompahgre River, providing scenic riverside views.
- Local hikers also love the Oak Flat Loop Trail, a 1.6 miles (2.6 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 50 minutes.
- Hiking in Montrose County is defined by dramatic canyons, river valleys, and plateau landscapes. The network offers options for different ability levels, including many easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Montrose County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 700 hikers have used komoot to explore Montrose County's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3
hikers
2.38km
00:46
50m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.39km
00:37
10m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(8)
113
hikers
2.56km
00:48
100m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
107
hikers
2.60km
00:47
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
6.60km
01:56
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.05km
00:35
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
362m
00:07
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
663m
00:18
90m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
948m
00:33
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
5.87km
01:41
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Gunnison Point is a wonderful overlook situated just behind the South Rim Visitor Center. It offers incredible views of the Black Canyon.
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The North Rim Ranger Station is opened irregularly in the summertime. During the wintertime, it is closed. It offers a self-pay station for the park entrance fee, a self-registration kiosk for wilderness payments (when the Ranger Station is closed), and there's an offering of maps, information, a picnic shelter, a toilet, and a water fountain.
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The North Rim Ranger Station is opened irregularly in the summertime. During the wintertime, it is closed. It offers a self-pay station for the park entrance fee, a self-registration kiosk for wilderness payments (when the Ranger Station is closed), and there's an offering of maps, information, a picnic shelter, a toilet, and a water fountain. It is located at the North Vista Trailhead.
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A short and fairly easy hiking loop from the visitor center. There is definitely a couple of steep sections, though! This is why I recommend hiking CCW.
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Not much of a hike but definitely a great place to stop when driving past. It's a short walk to the viewing point and once you are there you are presented with the best view of the Painted Wall in the entire National Park. The Painted Wall is the tallest wall in Colorado and the third tallest in The Lower 48 after El Cap and Notch Peak.
1
0
Chasm View Trail is not the longest of hikes but it offers incredible views on the section of path that follows the canyon, with the Painted Wall Viewing spot as its definite highlight. On the South Rim, there is a dedicated Painted Wall 'hike' but if you are on the North Rim this is the hike to do if you want to catch this magnificent feature in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The Painted Wall is the tallest wall in Colorado and the third tallest in The Lower 48 after El Cap and Notch Peak.
1
0
According to some, this is one of the nicest views of the Black Canyon. From this vantage point, you can see down into The Narrows. The Narrows is a unique spot within the canyon because the canyon walls rise straight from the river up to the rims, which makes it more dramatic than wider parts of the canyon.
1
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There are balanced rocks everywhere across the (Western) United States, with some balancing more than others. I wouldn't say this rock is the most gravity-defying balanced rock around but what makes this one so wild is that if it decides to 'let go' it would fall 1500 ft. into the canyon down below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Montrose County?
There are 13 easy hiking trails listed in Montrose County, part of a larger network of 33 trails for various skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes in Montrose County?
Montrose County offers a diverse range of landscapes for easy hikes. You can expect dramatic canyons, expansive plateaus, and scenic river valleys. Many trails provide views of the deep gorge of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and the vast Uncompahgre Plateau.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in Montrose County?
Yes, many of the easy trails in Montrose County are suitable for families. For example, the Uncompahgre Riverway Trail offers a flat, scenic path along the river, perfect for a leisurely family stroll. The Painted Wall View Trail is also a very short and accessible option with stunning canyon views.
Can I bring my dog on easy hiking trails in Montrose County?
Many trails in Montrose County are dog-friendly, but regulations can vary, especially within national parks. It's always best to check specific park or trail rules beforehand. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in national forests and on many local trails.
Are there any easy loop hikes in Montrose County?
Yes, Montrose County features several easy loop trails. The Oak Flat Loop Trail is a popular 1.6-mile option that takes about 50 minutes to complete. Another great choice is the Dead Horse Loop Trail, which is longer at about 4.1 miles.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see on easy hikes?
Easy hikes in Montrose County often lead to spectacular natural attractions. The Exclamation Point trail offers dramatic canyon views. You can also explore the Warner Point Nature Trail, which provides stunning vistas into the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. The South Rim Visitor Center is also a great starting point for easy walks with impressive overlooks.
Where can I find parking for easy trailheads?
Parking is generally available at the trailheads for most easy hikes in Montrose County, especially those within Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park or near the city of Montrose. For example, trails like the Painted Wall View Trail and Chasm View Nature Trail have designated parking areas nearby.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Montrose County?
The best time for easy hikes in Montrose County is typically spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and clear conditions for enjoying the diverse landscapes. While some lower elevation trails might be accessible in winter, higher elevation areas can experience snow and colder weather.
Are there any short easy hikes for a quick outing?
Absolutely. For a quick and rewarding outing, consider the Painted Wall View Trail, which is very short and offers incredible views. The Chasm View Nature Trail is another excellent short option, providing dramatic canyon perspectives.
What do other hikers enjoy most about easy hikes in Montrose County?
The easy hikes in Montrose County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning canyon views, the accessibility of the trails, and the unique geological formations found throughout the region, particularly within the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
Are there any easy trails along the Gunnison River?
Yes, the Uncompahgre Riverway Trail is an easy 1.5-mile path that follows the Uncompahgre River, providing scenic riverside views. The broader Curecanti National Recreation Area, located an hour east, also features the Gunnison River and offers various hiking opportunities.
Most popular attractions in Montrose County
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