Ajax Peak

Dogs Off-leash

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildlife

This hike leads to the summit of 12,785' Ajax Peak - one of Telluride's iconic mountains that is so prominently visible from town. You'll follow a mix of singletrack hiking trails and 4x4 roads to the top where the reward is a stunning 360 degree view of Telluride and the San Miguel River Valley, Ingram and Savage Basin, and countless surrounding 13,000'+ peaks.

Ajax Peak is one of Telluride's iconic mountains, clearly visible from town. Hiking to the summit requires a nearly 10 mile (round trip) hike with over 3,800 feet of elevation gain. You'll follow a mix of 4x4 roads (with possible traffic) and singletrack hiking trails. From the 12,785' summit you'll be rewarded with stunning 360 degree views of the town of Telluride and the San Miguel River Valley, Ingram and Savage Basin, and the many surrounding 13,000'+ peaks.

Begin from the main parking area for Bridal Veil Falls. From here you'll hike the Bridal Veil Falls Trail as it climbs up to the base of the waterfall (alternatively you could also hike the 4x4 road). At the base of the beautiful waterfall is another small parking area that fills quickly and requires a 4x4 vehicle to reach. This also marks the end of the singletrack hiking trail: continue walking up the 4x4 road as it switchbacks to the top of the waterfall.

At the top of Bridal Veil Falls turn left and continue hiking the 4x4 road. You'll make a couple more switchbacks, then pass some old mining ruins and cross Ingram Creek. After an especially rough section of road keep an eye open for the unsigned trail to the left (easy to miss). This is the start of the singletrack trail that will lead you the rest of the way to the summit.

You'll climb steadily as the trail switchbacks steeply up Ajax Peak, eventually gaining the summit ridge. Descend slightly to a saddle, then climb up to the summit. After tagging the summit, be sure to follow the use trail all the way out to the end of the ridge for the best views down to Telluride.

When finished, return the way you came or heel plunge down a steep, loose scree slope to loose a few hundred feet elevation the quick way. If looking to extend the adventure, it is also possible to remain on the ridge and continue up to Telluride Peak and Imogene Pass, then descend through Savage Basin.