Those are some of the best places to hike around South Fork and Del Norte, Colorado. Somewhere between 23,000- 27,000 Greater Sandhill Cranes are said to migrate through the San Luis Valley, and this area has been designated as a crucial refuge to give them and other animals a safe habitat for resting, mating, and living full-time. The hikes here are short and flat, but the interest comes from the animals you’ll encounter, and not in the difficulty of the trails.
This vast wildlife refuge is located 40 minutes east of South Fork and is a home to fascinating species of birds. Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge Sunset over the Sangre de Cristos, at Monte Vista Wildlife Refuge. Experienced hikers won’t be challenged by this trail, but they’ll be captivated by its scenery. Aspen trees are a prominent feature of the trail, and they put on an incredible display starting in mid September. At the end of this short and easy trail, you’ll encounter a stunning lake that gets its name from stunning hue of the water. You’ll find lots of hikes closer to town, but few that are this unique and rewarding. Opal Lake Trail Opal Lake from Perimeter Trail, Pagosa Springs. This trail is set up as a loop and is moderately difficult. Wildlife is a frequent feature on this trail, so be prepared. You’ll explore pastoral mountain ranch lands under the backdrop of some of the state’s tallest and majestic peaks. In the winter, this is an excellent spot for snowshoeing and cross country skiing. This pleasant three and a half-mile hike is located an hour outside of town. You’ll find excellent foliage displays in the fall, hypnotic ice formations at the falls during winter, and abundant wildlife and wildflowers in the spring and summer. But even without the falls, this trail is visually stunning from start to finish. The headliners are obviously the scenic Fourmile Falls, which feature water that dramatically gushes out of a colossal wall of rock. Photo by: Granger MeadorĪt an hour and a half from South Fork, this trail is worth the drive because it has so much to offer. Fourmile Falls via Fourmile Stock Drive Trail View from Fourmile Trail above the Upper Falls, Mineral, CO. There’s nothing here that most casual hikers can’t manage, but you will have to contend with a steep climb in elevation in a short period of time, so take note. Located just 15 minutes south of town, this four-mile trail explores a variety of gorgeous mountain landscapes that crescendo into stellar high-elevation views. This one shouldn’t be attempted by casual hikers who aren’t prepared and in good shape. You’ll pass through beautiful aspen meadows and alongside a pleasant mountain river before tackling steep switchbacks that lead to the lake. Continental Divide Trail: South Fork Cut-offĪ challenging 12-mile hike that leads to a serene alpine lake, the Middle Frisco Trail is an excellent way to prepare for a 14er, and has the benefit of being visually stunning.
South Fork sits right at the gate of this incredible forest, and many hikes here are located 30 minutes or less from town. You’ll find everything here from mile-long paths near established campsites to a 40-mile hike that winds along steep mountain ridges. Photo by: Jonathan Thorneīoasting nearly 60 trails of various lengths and difficulties, the Rio Grande National Forest is the kind of destination that hikers from around the world dream about.
If you’re in South Fork or Del Norte and are looking for a great hike, consider one of these recommendations: Hiking in the Rio Grande National Forest Rio Grande National Forest, South Fork, CO.
#South fork colorado series
The sprawling and rugged Rio Grande Forest just to the west of town hosts a series of scenic treks flanking the South Fork and main waterway of the Rio Grande River in an area that’s ideal for being immersed in the majestic solitude of nature. Both act as gateways to forests, canyons, landmarks and the vast San Luis Valley. Immersed in lush evergreen forests that are tucked under majestic peaks, the areas surrounding the tiny mountain communities of South Fork and Del Norte offer excellent hikes for every skill level.
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