Basics
- Location:
- Telluride
- Length:
- 17 miles
- Aerobic Difficulty:
- Advanced
- Time To Allow:
- 4 - 6 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 8500 feet
- Elevation Range:
- 8500 feet to 13000 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 4500 feet
- Season:
- July-September
Description
The Wasatch Trail, located in the San Juan Mountains by Telluride, is one of the most physically demanding rides in the state. The Wasatch Trail climbs almost 4500 feet from Telluride, topping out at over 13,000 feet and then descends back down technical and rock strewn trails to town.
The Wasatch Trail joins the Bridal Veil Falls Road that climbs from the town of Telluride, up steep switchbacks for quite some distance. The views become more and more expansive as the trail climbs higher and higher. Once at Bear Creek the trail joins with the Wasatch Trail. The Wasatch trail then brings riders down a very rocky and switchback-laden descent into Bear Creek Canyon and back to town. A map can come in handy on this trail.
Details
Location:
Length:
Difficulty:
Aerobic Difficulty:
Time To Allow:
Depends on skill level and aerobic fitness
Trailhead Elevation:
High elevation riding
Elevation Range:
Elevation Change:
Season:
Additional Details:
The Wasatch Trail is multi-use so riders may encounter hikers, vehicles and other users and should follow right of way protocol when meeting other groups. The Wasatch Trail is a very extreme trail, is located at high elevation and can experience sudden weather shifts, so riders should bring appropriate warm layers in anticipation of this. In addition, riders should be prepared with a stocked repair kit, first aid kit and extra food and water.
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Telluride, park in the town campground parking lot. Head toward the Bridal Veil Falls Road and start climbing.
