Basics
- Location:
- 20 miles southeast of Steamboat
- Setting:
- Mountainous
- Length:
- 6 mile roundtrip
- Time:
- 3 to 4 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 9600 feet
- Elevation Change:
- -1000 feet
- Season:
- Summer - Early Fall
Description
The rock formation, which resembles rabbit ears, is accessible from an old jeep road. Therefore, you may encounter cars driving some of the way down the FDR 291. Most of the hike is open fields, so be sure to bring adequate sun block. Also, Do not be alarmed when you see herds of grazing sheep with shepherds on horseback along the way because the area is permitted. Extraordinary wildflowers are visible during late spring and early summer. Be sure and bring your Camera and bug repellant.
Parking just past the stone monument on FDR 311, continue walking up FDR 311 through a patch of forest to the clearing. On your right, you will notice another jeep trail, FDR 291, with a small hiking symbol on a post; this is the old jeep road that will take you up to Rabbit Ears Peaks. The old dirt road winds through breathtaking meadows of wildflowers. Upon entering the forested part of the trail, you encounter the first real incline of the hike. The last uphill grade is very steep and will bring you to the base of the Ears. Be careful not to slide coming down these steep grades on your return hike.
Tour Companies
Vista Verde Guest Ranch - Hiking
- Near Steamboat Springs
- Hiking
- 970-879-3858
At Vista Verde Ranch, hiking is one of the many activities you can try during your all-inclusive Colorado ranch vacation. Our guides offer a customized outdoor experience whether you want to rock climb, mountain bike, fly fish or horseback ride.Helpful Links
Tour Companies
Vista Verde Guest Ranch - Hiking
- Near Steamboat Springs
- Hiking
- 970-879-3858
Details
Location:
Setting:
Length:
Time:
Trailhead Elevation:
Elevation Change:
Season:
Useful Map(s):
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Drive about 19 miles south east of Steamboat up Rabbit Ears Pass on HWY 40. Turn left (North) at the Dumont Lake Campground sign, and follow FDR 315 past the Dumont Lake Picnic Area and Campground Area turnoffs until you reach the old stone monument and historic marker. Turn left here onto FDR 311 and you may park here. Just past the gate and through a group of trees turn right onto FDR 291. You may also park here to begin your hike.
