Basics
- Location:
- Northeast of Durango, near Pagosa Springs
- Setting:
- Mountainous
- Length:
- 20 mile roundtrip
- Time:
- 10 to 12 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 8400 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 3600 feet
- Season:
- Summer - Fall
Description
Ten miles in length from Middle Fork Trailhead over Palomino Mountain to the Continental Divide Trail. The crossing of the Middle Fork can be difficult during high water. Trail is steep and offers little camping along the way. The last half of the trail is at 12,000 feet, so snowmelt is late. Highest point is 12,000 feet, total ascent is 4,600 feet.
Details
Location:
Northeast of Durango, near Pagosa Springs
Setting:
Mountainous
Length:
20 mile roundtrip
Time:
10 to 12 hours
Trailhead Elevation:
8400
Elevation Change:
3600
Season:
Summer - Fall
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Pagosa Springs travel west on U.S. Hwy. 160 to Piedra Road (FDR 631), north 17.8 miles on Piedra Road, then right on Middle Fork Road (FDR 636). Follow Middle Fork Rd. to its end at the primitive Middle Fork Hunter Camp and Trailhead.
