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A steep incline brings you out of Telluride and into mountainous backcountry.


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Map Key

4.6

Miles

7.4

KM

Point to Point

13,049' 3,977 m

High

9,676' 2,949 m

Low

3,431' 1,046 m

Up

106' 32 m

Down

15%

Avg Grade (8°)

71%

Max Grade (35°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Description

Connecting the town of Telluride to the Wasatch Saddle, the Wasatch Trail is one of the most scenic trails in the area. At first, you'll follow along Bear Creek and wind your way up to a dramatic waterfall. While most hikers call it a day after the falls, the recommended route is to continue on the trail as it ascends out of the Bear Creek drainage.

As you begin to gain elevation, take in the views of the steeply eroded drainage. Soon enough, you'll find yourself traversing open alpine meadows. In the spring and early summer, the meadows are filled with wildflowers, and your best chance to view wildlife will be in this portion.

As you continue, you'll crest the San Joaquin ridge, which will take you to the Wasatch saddle. From here, you can return the way you came, take a short jaunt up the Blixt Trail to gain the summit of Oscar's Pass, or drop into the Bridal Veil Falls drainage to return to town via a different route.

Strenuous, but rewarding, this is a great trail if you're in the Telluride area.

Flora & Fauna

Along the way, take your time to enjoy various wildflowers, and small mountain fauna, such as marmot and pika.

Contacts

Shared By:

Mikhaila Redovian

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 3 votes

#15

in Telluride

#12211

Overall
  4.0 from 3 votes
5 Star
33%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
33%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#15

in Telluride

#1,070

in Colorado

#12,211

Overall
4 Views Last Month
2,067 Since Nov 19, 2015
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Photos

Stunning views down the Bear Creek Valley.
Nov 3, 2023 near Telluride, CO
Bear Creek Valley.
Nov 3, 2023 near Telluride, CO
Small footbridge on the Wasatch Trail.
Nov 3, 2023 near Telluride, CO
Views from the top of the pass.
Nov 3, 2023 near Telluride, CO
Upper Bear Creek drainage, between Oscar's Pass and Telluride.
Jul 5, 2015 near Telluride, CO
Views from the pass.
Nov 3, 2023 near Telluride, CO

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Jul 27, 2019
Lea Achim
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