Cross Mountain Trail #637

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Spring · Views · Wildflowers

This would be a great out-and-back or part of the Lizard Head loop as it has a fairly manageable grade, decent footing, and lots of different zones to keep you occupied.

This trail is remarkable for its diversity of ecological zones. Heading north from the trailhead off the San Juan Skyway, it winds through intermittent fields of wildflowers and long grasses until ducking into large, thick stands of evergreens. You'll find a good deal of shade and canopy cover within the trees, making for a lovely trek in warmer weather.

The trail climbs through the trees at a moderate grade with areas of loose footing and a couple small, ephemeral creek crossings. As the trail emerges from the woods, it begins to climb more steeply for the last mile.

This final traverse above the treeline and along the ridge provides unbelievable views of the lush valley with its dark, volcanic soil, and alpine meadows that surround the peaks of the Lizard Head Wilderness.

Lots of flowers and country that feels like there should be animals around.